LEGAL MEASURES TO PROMOTE THE PARTICIPATION OF INDUSTRIAL FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL ESTATES IN THE CONSERVATION OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

The objectives of this research are: 1) to study the background, concepts, theories, and the situation of problems related to the participation of industrial factories and industrial estates in natural resource and environmental conservation; 2) to study legal measures related to natural resource and environmental conservation; 3) to study and comparatively analyze the characteristics and legal measures of Thailand and other countries related to the participation of industrial factories and industrial estates in natural resource and environmental conservation, and 4) Propose guidelines regarding the participation of industrial factories and industrial estates in the conservation of natural resources and the environment in Thailand, using qualitative research methods. Through analytical study, the researcher collected laws, regulations, rules, research reports, academic articles, and other relevant documents, including recommendations and guidelines for problem-solving from written works and academic research, meeting reports, related legal provisions, and internet databases. The collected information was then analyzed descriptively.

          Research findings indicate that Thailand will make efforts to improve environmental policies and promote public participation. However, implementation at the local level still faces significant limitations, especially in industrial estate areas. The participation of industrial factories in conserving natural resources and the environment has not been driven by a true understanding of 'sustainability' but rather according to the minimum legal requirements, which do not lead to structural changes. The problem of pollution from industrial factories, particularly in industrial estate areas such as Map Ta Phut, is a long-accumulated issue that has intensified over time. Although the Pollution Control Department plays a role in inspections and preparing EIA reports, the information has not been sufficiently disclosed to the public. Therefore, three approaches are proposed to address the problem. 1. The declaration of pollution control zones under Section 59 of the Environmental Act to enable effective and systematic pollution management. 2. The establishment of environmental courts to make the justice process in environmental matters clear, easily accessible, and reduce the burden on the public. 3. The effective enforcement of laws through coordination between relevant agencies and by increasing the authority of pollution control officers to act on behalf of agencies that neglect their duties. If these proposals are seriously implemented, they will help elevate the management of environmental issues in Thailand and sustainably restore justice to the people affected by industrial pollution.