Addressing Bangkok's Concerns: Democrat Party Proposes Closed-System Waste Management and Local Tax Collection

At a press conference on February 5, 2024, Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva and party candidates discussed waste management solutions for Bangkok. Abhisit emphasized the party's readiness and focus on addressing local and national issues, particularly waste management challenges. The party proposes two key approaches: developing a green economy and fully decentralizing local government powers. Abhisit highlighted the need to transform economic structures to be more environmentally friendly and empower local authorities to manage resources, including tax collection and fund-raising. Party member Sakoltee Phattiyakul noted that while Bangkok currently uses landfill methods for about 50% of daily waste, the party aims to support local municipalities nationwide in developing more sustainable waste management systems that address environmental concerns, including PM 2.5 pollution.