Bangkok lowers emissions levels: massive measures against toxic air!

Bangkok lowers emissions levels: massive measures against toxic air!

In Bangkok, air quality is in focus, especially now that the peak season for PM2.5 emissions has begun. Authorities recently introduced a significant change: the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has reduced vehicle exhaust opacity limits from 30% to 20%. This regulation came into force on November 1st and is intended to help drastically reduce air pollution in the metropolis. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced this measure to reduce emissions from older diesel vehicles in particular, thereby improving air quality by an estimated 24%, as OANA News reports.

The BMA has also revised its enforcement strategy to target emission sources such as bus depots and construction sites. To increase private vehicle compliance with the new requirements, the Green List Plus program offers discounts on oil and filter changes, which can reduce PM2.5 emissions by up to 42%. In addition, the ban on heavy trucks that are not on the “Green List” now applies to all 50 districts on days with high air pollution.

Current dangers and measures

Just last week, the PM2.5 value in Bangkok reached a critical point with an average of 39.8 µg/m³, as Bangkok Post reports. 48 zones in the city have been marked with the orange color code, indicating health risks from dust pollution. Residents in these areas are encouraged to wear masks to avoid adverse health effects. Bangkok was also ranked as the tenth most polluted city in the world.

The BMA is planning increased checks for older vehicles that do not meet the new standards. So far, 135,000 vehicles have been inspected, of which 2,141 failed, including 529 trucks. However, the governor has called for more powers to also inspect public transport more effectively. He has called on neighboring provinces to also minimize burning of crop waste, which is another source of air pollution.

Health effects of PM2.5

The health risks from PM2.5 emissions should not be underestimated. Fine particles can promote acute eye redness and allergic reactions and often lead to inflammation and other symptoms, as Wellmed Bangkok explains. Long-term exposure increases the risk of chronic diseases such as lung cancer and heart disease. Small children, older people and people with previous illnesses are particularly at risk. Protective measures such as wearing respiratory masks and spending less time outdoors during high PM2.5 levels are strongly recommended.

The city government also has a comprehensive air quality monitoring strategy that provides real-time data through a network of calibrated sensors. Despite these measures, the challenge of combating air pollution remains high. Air pollution is expected to peak in January 2026 and authorities are working hard to find solutions to protect the health of the population.