Climate Threat Air Pollution

  

Toxic Air in Bangkok – Hundreds of Schools Closed

352 schools in the Thai capital Bangkok are closed because the air pollution is too severe, several media outlets report. In addition, residents of the city are being urged to work from home.

Air pollution and smog have been a problem in Thailand for a long time, and are recurring with the seasons. But this week's levels are the worst in five years, according to AFP.

In an attempt to quickly reduce emissions, authorities have offered free travel on public transport, writes The Guardian.

Now Thailand's Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is being criticized by the opposition for being in Davos at the World Economic Forum while the capital is "suffocating," reports Bloomberg.

Bangkok is currently the world's fourth most polluted city, according to the Bangkok Post.

Desperate move against smog – ice from the sky

Bangkok is suffering from extensive smog and air pollution. Schools have been closed and residents are being urged to stay home.

In a “desperate” attempt to combat pollution, Thailand is taking a unique approach – from the air, France24 reports.

Twice a day, planes are sent up to spray cold water or dry ice over the layer of warm air that holds the toxic substances in place. The theory is that if the temperature drops, it will be easier for the toxic particles to spread into the atmosphere.

Critics say the evidence that it works is thin to non-existent.

One million people have fallen ill from the pollution since the end of 2023, according to France24. And Bloomberg reports that the deteriorating air is costing Thailand $89 million a month.