Preface
Net carbon emission is the balance between the amount of greenhouse gases produced and the amount removed from the atmosphere. By achieving net zero, the total carbon emissions released are entirely offset by procedures to reduce and eliminate carbon from the atmosphere. These actions are significant in combating climate change and its escalating effects. If we are able to achieve net zero carbon emission, we can arguably reduce the impact of global warming, lessen air pollution, preserve natural ecosystems, and secure a sustainable future for our future generations. Additionally, attempts to achieve net zero can drive
eco-innovations increasing as new green start-ups emerge into the market, increase job opportunities, for example in the production of EV batteries and EV vehicles, and improve public health by reducing harmful pollutants from the atmosphere. However, there are challenges that come with the transition to a net zero economy, such as a significant strain in a country’s capital due to the need for investment. For example, it takes a large sum to install new renewable energy infrastructures to replace oil or coal as well as to impose new industrial practices, and policy adjustments to support a low carbon economy.
In response to the escalating threat of climate change, a multitude of international agreements and decisions have been crafted to address the pressing issue of greenhouse gas emissions. For example, in September 2015, 193 countries adopted the 2030 Agenda
for Sustainable Development at the United Nations Sustainable Development Summit. As a global plan aimed at addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges, this agenda outlines 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to achieve a more prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable world by focusing on ending poverty, protecting the planet, and ensuring prosperity for all by 2030. Amongst its range of 17 global objectives and 169 targets aimed to transform the world, one of SDGs’ objectives is taking climate action which aims to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the impact of climate change. Adopted at COP21, the Paris Agreement is also a landmark international treaty under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), aims to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial level. Since its adoption in 2015, Thailand has been part of a signatory to the Paris Agreement and committed to reducing its carbon emissions; in order to achieve a successful transition into a low-carbon economy, Thailand also has to submit an updated national climate action plan – known as Nationally determined Contribution (NDC) – every five years.
Currently, Thailand has ascended to the 25th position – with a score of 61.38 in the latest Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI), making an impressive rise of 17 places since 2023. The Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) is a scoring system designed to increase transparency in international climate politics and measure performance of each country. It uses standardised criteria, each of which has a different weight; for example, greenhouse gas emission weighs 40% of the overall score while renewable energy, energy use and climate policy have a weight of 20% each. The score is then used to evaluate the climate protection performance of 63 countries and the EU. This implies how even though Thailand succeeded in some aspects, there are still many parts where we have to improve on.
For example, in terms of carbon emissions, the country emitted approximately 243.6 million metric tons from the energy sector in 2023. The figure also showed a considerable reduction from 282.45 million metric tons emitted in 2022, the amount which was all-time high for the country, therefore reflecting its ongoing efforts to curb greenhouse gas emissions. The primary contributor to Thailand’s greenhouse gas emissions is the energy sector, accounting for a substantial 69.06% of the total. Following closely, the agriculture sector contributes around 15.69%, while the industrial processes and product use sector contributes 10.77%. The waste sector accounts for the remaining 4.88% of Thailand’s greenhouse gas emissions. These figures highlight Thailand’s evolving position and the challenges it faces in managing emissions across its key sectors amidst global climate action efforts. Correlatively, the amount of carbon dioxide emitted decreased 2.4% in 2023 compared to the previous corresponding to the reduction in energy use in Thailand, and there was also a reduction in the amount of carbon dioxide emission by 9.7% and 3.5% in the previous year in the industrial and other economic sectors. However, the electricity production sector and transportation sector had a slight increase in carbon dioxide emission at 0.8% and 0.1 percent respectively.
Targets and Aims of Net Zero Carbon Emission
Thailand has integrated the climate change agenda into its national, sectoral, and local policies, demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing the issue holistically. Climate mitigation efforts are inserted across various frameworks including the 20-year National Strategy, the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan, the Climate Change Master Plan, and initiatives such as the Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Action (NAMA), the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), and the Long-Term Low Greenhouse Gas Emission Development Strategy. Thailand has significantly enhanced its climate ambition as demonstrated in its updated NDC which determines that the country aims to increase greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions to 30% by 2030 compared to business-as-usual levels, with a conditional target of 40%. Apart from the NDC, Thailand has pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero GHG emissions by 2065. These commitments reflect Thailand’s proactive approach to mitigating climate impacts, underlining its commitment to sustainable development which also aligns with global efforts to limit temperature increase as well as to tackle other climate challenges.
Strategies, Implementations and challenges
Energy
In 2023, Thailand’s energy sector alone released approximately 89.6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide, which accounts for as much as 69.06% of the country’s emission. To tackle this concerning situation, Thailand has taken comprehensive measures to reduce greenhouse gases. Led by the Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO), the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning, and the Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (TGO), Thailand aims to reduce greenhouse gas emission by at least 82 million metric tons by 2030 while focusing on increases in promotion of renewable energy adoption and enhancing efficiency (Greenhouse Gas Reduction Action Plan of the Country for the year 2021 – 2030 Energy Sector). The country plans to increase the share of renewable energy in final energy consumption to 30%, thus signalling a commitment to diversify its energy mix and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. By 2036, Thailand also aims to cut energy intensity by 30% which would then optimise energy use in consumption across industries and infrastructure.
Transportation
Transportation constitutes a significant portion of Thailand’s greenhouse gas emissions, amounting to 29.16% of the energy sector’s total emissions. The Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning has committed to reducing these emissions by at least 41 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent (MTCO2EQ) by 2030. Focusing on enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of public transportation networks, its strategy generally aims to discourage reliance on personal vehicles and to expand sidewalks, footpaths, and bicycle lanes that are connected with public transit systems. Once achieved, the network is believed to successfully promote non-motorized transport options. Moreover, policies are being implemented to accelerate the adoption of energy-saving technologies and electronic vehicles (EVs) which are supported by incentives like subsidies for EV batteries. Notably, the Thai government aims to exclusively sell zero-emission vehicles in the country by 2035. Despite the currently limited availability of EVs and charging infrastructure, the government targets deploying 1.2 million EVs and establishing 690 charging stations by 2036 with an aim to ensure sustainable progress towards reducing transportation emissions and fostering a greener mobility ecosystem.
Industrial
In Thailand, the industrial sector is the third-largest emitter of carbon dioxide, accounting for 10.77% of the country’s total emissions. Within this sector, cement production is the primary contributor, responsible for 51.28% of emissions, followed by the chemical industry at 33.17%. In order to reduce emissions significantly, the industrial sector has set a goal to cut 2.25 million tonnes of carbon dioxide by 2030. The Department of Industrial Works is leading this effort, implementing strategies such as transitioning from traditional limestone burning to more sustainable methods in cement production, which emit lower levels of CO2. Apart from the efforts to adopt eco-friendly refrigerants in appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners, the sector aims to convert wastewater from factories into renewable energy sources, contributing to both emission reductions and sustainable resource management.
Overall
There are numerous sector-specific challenges Thailand is facing in order to reduce carbon emission by 2030 and become carbon neutral by 2050. In the energy sector, the country must transition from its heavy reliance on fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, all of which require significant investment on improved grid management and supportive policies. Meanwhile, the transportation sector which grapples with high emissions from fossil-fuel vehicles requires a considerable expansion of public transportation infrastructure and electric vehicle adoption, which can be financially burdensome, not to mention the infrastructure limitations. For the industrial sector, enhancing energy efficiency and adopting low-carbon technologies are crucial, yet costly and complex. According to Fourth National Communication 2022, the natural resource management sector still lacks data at the local level for climate change adaptation planning; likewise, the local governments, the main agencies who are authorised to take actions, lack funding, personnel and knowledge to prevent impacts of climate change on natural resources. Across all sectors, Thailand also faces the challenge of ensuring coordinated policy implementation, raising public awareness, and developing effective monitoring systems to track progress.
ที่มา: Sustainable Development Report 2023 (https://dashboards.sdgindex.org/map/goals/SDG13)
ที่มา: 2024 SDG dashboards for East and South Asia (levels and trends)
(https://dashboards.sdgindex.org/chapters/part-2-the-sdg-index-and-dashboards#figure-2-10-2024-sdg-dashboards-for-east-and-south-asia-levels-and-trends)
Comparisons with Other Countries
Norway: 1st in readiness index
Norway has set a legally binding target to reach net zero emissions by 2050 but is aiming to be carbon neutral as soon as 2030 by offsetting its emissions, including through an agreement with the EU to take part in its Emission Trading System. Norway and Thailand offer contrasting approaches and contexts in their pursuits of net zero carbon goals. Norway, ranking first in the Net Zero Readiness Index, owes its success to a combination of robust policies, technological innovation, and a strong commitment to sustainability. The country’s strategy focuses on electrification of transport, extensive renewable energy investments including hydropower and wind, and stricter emission regulations. Moreover, Norway’s wealth from oil revenues has enabled substantial investments in green technologies and carbon capture initiatives, positioning it as a leader in decarbonization efforts. In contrast, Thailand faces challenges such as rapid urbanisation, a significant industrial base, and varying levels of policy implementation. While Thailand has committed to renewable energy expansion and electric vehicle adoption, achieving net zero targets amidst economic growth remains a complex task. Both nations highlight the importance of tailored strategies that integrate economic realities with environmental ambitions, yet Norway’s proactive measures and resource allocation illustrate why it leads in readiness for a carbon-neutral future.
Malaysia: 21st in readiness index
Malaysia’s commitment to sustainable development aligns with its forest conservation initiatives and green technology investments, thus contributing to its 21st place in the Net Zero Readiness Index. The country’s strategy involves a balanced approach that combines investments in renewable energy, particularly solar and biomass, with efforts to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions from its palm oil industry which is the country’s major economic sector. Thailand, on the other hand, faces challenges such as rapid urbanisation and industrial growth, impacting its energy consumption patterns and emissions. Despite these challenges, Thailand has made strides in promoting renewable energy adoption, particularly through solar power expansion and incentives for electric vehicles. Despite their geopolitical differences, both nations’ efforts underscore the importance of tailored strategies that integrate economic development with environmental sustainability.
Future Opportunity/ Improvement
To achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, Thailand should prioritise accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power while enhancing energy efficiency across industries, buildings, and transportation. This should start with a commitment to phase out coal by 2027 at the earliest and 2037 at the latest. The experts say support mechanisms should be implemented to encourage investment in renewable energy. The government should also prioritise establishing decentralised energy systems, specifically a ‘net-metering scheme’ that allows smaller renewable energy producers to feed electricity into the national grid. However, the experts also caution that certain renewable energy projects result in human rights violations as they infringe on communities’ livelihoods. Therefore, thorough revisions must also be taken to ensure that the approaches toward the net zero carbon emission goal benefit the overall social structure while not exploiting or marginalising any particular groups of residents in the country.
Apart from improvements on renewable energy utilisation, there is also a great need to decarbonise the transportation sector through incentives for electric vehicles and improved public transit infrastructure, considering that the transportation sector accounts for as much as 26% of the country’s total emission, and out of this road transport accounts for 81%. Regarding the agricultural sector, the improvement can be achieved through extensive promotion of sustainable agricultural practices as well as environmental conservation and reforestation. Lastly, to tackle the industrial sector and overall pollution concerns, opportunities lie in research and development for clean technologies and carbon capture innovations.
All in all, for long-term success, it is necessary to acquire and consistently implement robust policy frameworks as well as to raise public awareness on climate change. Since climate concerns transcend national boundaries, fostering international collaborations will further support Thailand in finally achieving its ambitious climate goals.
Conclusion
Achieving carbon neutrality is a crucial challenge for Thailand, a nation working to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. Thailand has set ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to renewable energy, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero emissions by 2065. This reflects a proactive stance on climate change. However, significant obstacles remain, such as the need for substantial investments, infrastructure expansion, and overcoming specific sectoral issues. The progress Thailand has made, highlighted by improvements in international climate indices, demonstrates the effectiveness of its climate policies. Yet, reaching net-zero will require continuous adaptation and support from both the public and private sectors. By focusing on renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and encouraging innovation, Thailand can address these challenges. The country’s efforts toward carbon neutrality not only support its own sustainable development goals but also contribute to the global fight against climate change.
Author : Kanyapatch Plodwimut
Link/references
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สืบค้นจาก http://nscr.nesdc.go.th/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/PPT-National-Strategy.pdf
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สืบค้นจาก https://www.nesdc.go.th/article_attach/article_file_20230615134223.pdf
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สืบค้นจาก https://climatepromise.undp.org
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สืบค้นจาก https://www.undp.org/stories-climate-master-plan-th
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สืบค้นจาก https://unfccc.int/sites/default/files/resource/Thailand%20NC4_22122022.pdf
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สืบค้นจาก https://caseforsea.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Prioritized-challenges-of-energy-transition-in-Thailands-power-sector-2.pdf
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สืบค้นจาก https://s3.amazonaws.com/sustainabledevelopment.report/2024/sustainable-development-report-2024.pdf
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สืบค้นจาก https://s3.amazonaws.com/sustainabledevelopment.report/2023/sustainable-development-report-2023.pdf
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สืบค้นจาก http://nscr.nesdc.go.th/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/NS18_080367.pdf
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สืบค้นจาก https://s3.amazonaws.com/sustainabledevelopment.report/2022/2022-sustainable-development-report.pdf
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สืบค้นจาก https://ccpi.org/country/tha/
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