NRCT, PCD and TEI Advance Cooperation under the CLEAR Sky Strategy to Address Transboundary Haze Pollution
21 May 2026
NRCT, PCD and TEI Advance Cooperation under the CLEAR Sky Strategy to Address Transboundary Haze Pollution
The National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), in collaboration with the Pollution Control Department (PCD) and the Thailand Environment Institute (TEI), is advancing cooperation under the CLEAR Sky Strategy to address transboundary haze pollution in the Mekong region.
On behalf of Dr. Wiparat De-Ong, Executive Director of NRCT, Dr. Vijarn Simachaya, Promoting Committee (PC) Member for the National Science, Research and Innovation (TSRI) Strategic Program on “Thailand Safe from PM2.5,” together with Mr. Pralong Dumrongthai, Program Director (PD) for the “Thailand Safe from PM2.5” initiative, and members of the strategic program working group, participated in the meeting entitled “Advancing Measures to Address Thailand–Myanmar Transboundary Haze Pollution under the CLEAR Sky Strategy (2024–2030).”
The meeting was co-chaired by Dr. Surin Worakijthamrong, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department, representing Thailand, and Dr. San Oo, Director-General of the Environmental Conservation Department (ECD), representing the Republic of the Union of Myanmar. The event was held from 19–21 May 2026 at Amora Tapae Hotel, Chiang Mai Province, with the objective of strengthening bilateral cooperation and identifying practical solutions to the recurring transboundary haze crisis affecting the region.
During the meeting, Dr. Surin Worakijthamrong highlighted the current situation and key challenges in managing transboundary haze pollution. According to the latest report from Myanmar, the country successfully reduced the number of fire hotspots by 12 percent in 2025 compared with the previous year. This achievement reflects Myanmar’s efforts in enforcing environmental conservation laws while continuously raising public awareness in high-risk areas.
Despite the reduction in hotspot numbers, significant challenges remain. These include limitations in air quality monitoring infrastructure, environmental surveillance systems, and comprehensive data management, all of which are essential for effective haze management and pollution control.
As part of the program, participants also conducted field visits and technical exchanges between Thailand and Myanmar. The delegation visited Mae Suai Agricultural Cooperative Ltd. and a Good Agricultural Practices (GAP)-certified model farm promoting zero-burning maize cultivation, as well as community forest conservation areas. These sites demonstrate sustainable agricultural practices aimed at reducing open burning and encouraging farmers to adopt environmentally friendly land management approaches.
NRCT has provided research funding to support the development of knowledge and evidence-based approaches under the CLEAR Sky Strategy. The research project is led by Dr. Jeeranuch Sakkhamduang of the Thailand Environment Institute (TEI), focusing on strengthening academic cooperation between Thailand and Myanmar through knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and collaborative environmental management.
The exchange of technologies and expertise is considered a key mechanism for integrating air pollution-related Big Data across borders. Such cooperation will enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of transboundary haze management, improve public health protection, and contribute to cleaner air and sustainable environmental quality for communities throughout the Mekong region.
Through this collaborative effort, NRCT reaffirms its commitment to supporting research, innovation, and international cooperation to address PM2.5 and transboundary haze pollution, ultimately improving environmental sustainability and the quality of life for people in the region.
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by: National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT)
