Bangkok: The Cabinet has approved the draft Climate Change Act B.E. … from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, aiming to elevate Thailand’s efforts towards a low-carbon economy and strengthen its resilience to cope with a global warming situation sustainably. After review by the Council of State, it will be submitted to the House of Representatives for consideration.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin revealed that the Cabinet has approved in principle the draft Climate Change Act B.E. …, which lays the foundation for Thailand’s first significant legal framework for addressing global warming collaboratively with the international community. This initiative involves establishing a formal mechanism for managing the impacts of extreme weather events across the government and all sectors, as well as developing Thailand’s low-carbon trade capabilities in line with the global goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This will provide Thailand with the tools and opportunities to build resilience for the nation and its people to effectively and sustainably combat the impacts of global warming.
Mr. Suchart further stated that the draft Act contains 14 sections, 205 articles, and a transitional provision, which requires expedited implementation in accordance with the directives and policies of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. The bill will expedite the implementation of legislation to address climate change, ensuring Thailand’s greenhouse gas reduction and adaptation goals for severe weather. The public and private sector will participate in policy and planning, drive implementation, and implement carbon pricing mechanisms, including Emission Rights Allocation (ETS), Cross-Border Carbon Price Adjustment (CBAM), carbon taxes, and carbon credits. Financial support through the Climate Fund will also be accelerated to generate capital for both public and private sector investments, enhancing resilience and mitigating the impacts of overall loss and damage. This will also support the transition to a low-emissions economy capable of international trade competition.
The draft law has been designed to ensure balanced enforcement and support for implementation to maximize benefits for all sectors. Public opinion has been fully considered in accordance with relevant regulations and laws. Therefore, we can be confident that this draft law will be considered by the Council of State and completed expeditiously before being submitted to Parliament for expedited legalization.