WASTE MANAGEMENT PROBLEMS OF LOCAL ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATIONS IN THAILAND

Abstract

The expansion of people moving to local areas has resulted in an increase in the amount of waste in the local area. Therefore, it is necessary to study the waste management problems of local administrative organizations in Thailand. The main problems include improper management that affects the environment and public health, such as landfill fires in various areas, as well as the need for public participation in solving the problem. Local administrative organizations must collaborate with communities to ensure effective waste management, which has a national waste management master plan that has also been established.

The waste problem is not only an environmental problem, but also involves long-term economic and public health problems. According to statistics from the Pollution Control Department, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, in 2021, Thailand had 24.98 million tons of waste, compared to the total Thai population of 69.8 million people. This means that 1 Thai person creates 360 kilograms of waste per year. This enormous amount of waste reflects the high consumption trend in all sectors. If waste is not managed well, it may affect the environment and the health of people in society.

There are many approaches to waste management of local administrative organizations in Thailand, including management at the source, collection, and transportation. The 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) approach is applied, as well as creating networks in the community and public participation. To make waste management more efficient and reduce the impact on the environment and natural resources.