The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is preparing to collaborate with other ASEAN air forces to address air pollution, particularly focusing on the problem of fine particulate matter PM2.5. This announcement was made during the annual ASEAN Air Chiefs Conference in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar, which just concluded, with the goal of improving air quality.
The conference serves as a platform for air force leaders from the ten ASEAN nations to discuss defense cooperation, counter-extremism measures, and disaster relief strategies. This year, the conference also emphasized efforts related to environmental cooperation.
ACM Alongkorn Wannarot, the RTAF’s commander-in-chief, highlighted the force’s initiatives to tackle the PM2.5 issue, primarily caused by widespread crop burning in Southeast Asia. He mentioned that the RTAF, in partnership with the Department of Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation, established the Royal Rainmaking operation unit in 2015. The unit’s mission is to combat wildfires, reduce PM2.5 pollution, and increase water levels in Thai dams.
Furthermore, ACM Alongkorn shared that the RTAF is making significant progress in developing relevant technology, including a mobile app for waste management and eco-friendly alternatives to plastic.
To promote renewable energy, the RTAF has established an educational center to showcase and encourage the use of biodiesel fuel, wind energy, and solar power.
In a pioneering partnership with the Provincial Electricity Authority, the RTAF is implementing floating solar panels and solar-powered roofs at air bases across the country, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and leading the fight against environmental pollution.
Additionally, a promising scientific research project was initiated two weeks ago, exploring the potential of three herbal plants in combating chronic diseases related to PM2.5 dust. The primary focus of this collaborative project is to address health challenges arising from prolonged exposure to harmful PM2.5 dust particles, which is a significant concern in regions affected by air pollution.
