Legal Environmental Measures for Preventing PM 2.5 Pollution in the Industrial Sector

Abstract

Environmental issues are critical concerns that directly impact public health and overall quality of life. One of the most pressing environmental problems today is fine particulate matter (PM 2.5), an air pollutant originating from industrial activities, transportation, and fuel combustion. Industrial factories, in particular, contribute significantly to air pollution by exceeding emission standards, thereby worsening the PM 2.5 crisis and affecting people of all ages. PM 2.5 refers to airborne particulate matter with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers, which can penetrate deep into the respiratory system. Due to its microscopic size, these particles can enter the lungs and bloodstream, leading to severe health issues such as chronic respiratory diseases, stroke, heart disease, and lung cancer. Additionally, PM 2.5 pollution negatively impacts ecosystems, contaminates soil and water sources, and disrupts economic activities and tourism.To address this issue, environmental laws play a crucial role in regulating, setting standards, and enforcing preventive measures against air pollution, particularly in the industrial sector, which is a major source of emissions. The government has enacted relevant laws and regulations, including the Enhancement and Conservation of National Environmental Quality Act B.E. 2535 (1992) and ministerial regulations setting air quality standards and emission controls for industrial factories. However, despite the clear legal framework, law enforcement in practice still faces several challenges, such as inadequate monitoring mechanisms, non-compliance by certain industries, and penalties that may not be stringent enough to ensure effective pollution control.