Thai Social Science Journal

Problems and Obstacles of Policies Addressing PM2.5 Pollution in Thailand

araya suwanmekha — 2025-04-22

PM2.5 pollution remains a major environmental and public health issue in Thailand, particularly during the winter season when open burning and industrial emissions intensify. The Thai government has implemented various measures to mitigate pollution, including regulating agricultural burning, enforcing strict environmental laws, promoting clean technology in industries, and collaborating with ASEAN countries to address transboundary pollution.However, significant challenges remain, particularly in the enforcement of regulations and inter-agency coordination. The lack of effective collaboration between key institutions, such as the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Industry, has led to inconsistencies in policy implementation and regulatory loopholes. Economic constraints also pose a major obstacle, as many farmers continue to rely on crop residue burning due to its low cost, while transitioning to environmentally friendly agricultural practices requires significant investment. In the industrial and transportation sectors, the adoption of clean technology remains limited due to inadequate government support and insufficient financial incentives. To effectively combat PM2.5 pollution, Thailand must strengthen inter-agency cooperation, enhance incentives for clean technology adoption, and improve law enforcement mechanisms. Additionally, economic incentives should be introduced to encourage farmers and industries to invest in sustainable practices. Increased public and private sector participation, along with strengthened international cooperation, will be essential for achieving long-term solutions to PM2.5 pollution in Thailand.

Demography structure Changes and Their Impact on the Aging Society in Thailand

anucha intarapongpan — 2025-04-22

The Demography structure changes in Thailand, particularly the shift towards an aging society, have occurred rapidly and have significant implications across various sectors. The increasing proportion of the elderly population has led to challenges in the economy, such as a decline in the workforce, changes in production structures, and a growing burden on social welfare and healthcare systems. Socially, there are challenges related to the care of the elderly within families, as well as changes in values and intergenerational relationships. Additionally, education and skill development systems must adapt to lifelong learning models to accommodate the growing and diverse elderly population. Addressing these changes requires careful planning. The government should develop comprehensive public policies that respond to the needs of the elderly, particularly by enhancing the social welfare system, promoting the active participation of the elderly in society, and adjusting labor market structures to support older workers. Furthermore, promoting research and policies aimed at developing a society that is more suitable for an aging population is essential. Raising awareness in society about how to manage Demography structure and care for the elderly is also a key component of sustainable solutions for an aging society.

The Role of Digital Technology in the Thai Education System: Challenges and Opportunities in Implementing Technology in Schools, Universities, and Lifelong Learning

phutphat hongchumphae — 2025-04-22

This study examines the use of digital technology in the Thai education system, highlighting key challenges such as limited access to technology, especially in remote areas with inadequate infrastructure, such as unstable internet or insufficient teaching tools. Additionally, there are issues related to developing the digital skills of teachers and educational staff, as well as the need to adapt teaching methods to new technologies, which requires time and effort. On the other hand, digital technology offers opportunities to expand educational access in remote areas through online learning. It also supports the development of essential 21st-century skills. For the Thai education system to effectively address technological changes, investment in infrastructure is crucial to ensure equal access to technology across all regions, particularly by improving internet networks and digital devices in schools. Training programs to enhance the technological skills of teachers and staff, along with the development of continuous, tailored training curricula, are essential. Improving teaching methods that incorporate technology effectively, such as using online platforms for anytime, anywhere learning, and fostering creativity and collaboration in a digital environment, are also key. Adapting the Thai education system requires collaboration from the government, private sector, and educational institutions to develop sustainable educational technology strategies in the long term.