Climate change is not just about rising temperatures – it is a complex issue affecting multiple facets of our lives. In Thailand, increasing temperatures, frequent severe floods, and harsher droughts are becoming more prevalent, impacting sectors nationwide from tourism to public health and natural resource management.
Tourism Sector
The tourism industry in Thailand faces significant threats due to climate change. Natural and cultural attractions are at risk, potentially leading to a decline in tourist visits and economic loss. The country’s rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes, crucial for tourism, are particularly vulnerable to climate impacts.
Public Health Sector
The public health sector is also under threat. Climate change can lead to the reemergence of diseases, posing a significant risk to public health. Warmer temperatures and altered rainfall patterns can create favorable conditions for vector-borne diseases, stressing the healthcare system.
Natural Resource Management
Coastal erosion is a major issue, costing Thailand up to THB 6,000 million in lost land. According to Sompong Detchsorn, a fisherman from Ban Laem District, Phetchaburi Province, the coastlines have been gradually eroding over the past 5-10 years, encroaching on canals and obstructing fishing activities. Building continuous barriers is essential to combat this erosion.
Agricultural Sector
The agricultural sector, employing over 12 million people and occupying nearly half of Thailand’s land area, is severely impacted by climate change. Fluctuating weather patterns pose significant risks to crop and livestock production. Paddy rice fields suffer from flooding during the rainy season, while upland rice faces heat stress during harvest. Increased temperatures can also lead to the death of fish, crabs, and other seafood in aquaculture. Livestock health, growth, and breeding are negatively affected, with pigs breeding less in hotter temperatures and chickens becoming more susceptible to diseases.
Despite the large workforce, the agricultural sector generates relatively low income. According to the Ministry of Commerce, agriculture contributes only 9% to Thailand’s GDP. The Department of Agricultural Economics reported that in 2022, the average annual income per agricultural household was THB 80,271, approximately THB 6,689 per month.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
In 2018, the agricultural sector accounted for 15.69% of Thailand’s total greenhouse gas emissions. However, it remains one of the most impacted sectors due to its reliance on weather conditions. The Climate Risk Map of Thailand highlights significant inequalities in vulnerability to climate change impacts such as heat, drought, and flooding, particularly in the agricultural and food security sectors.
Stay informed with Uncensored Networks for more updates on how climate change is reshaping Thailand’s landscape and affecting its vital sectors.
