Paper Title
Air Pollution Laws for Industrial Facilities: A Comparative Study of Foreign Legislation
Abstract
Thailand currently has a large number of industrial facilities, many of which emit pollutants such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide during their operations. These emissions contribute significantly to air pollution, adversely impacting human health, natural resources, and the environment. This article aims to examine air pollution laws in the United States and Japan to provide recommendations for aligning Thai legislation with international standards and reducing harmful emissions. The comparative study reveals that while Thailand has legal frameworks addressing air pollution, including civil and criminal penalties, the issue persists. A comparison with the United States highlights the effectiveness of the Clean Air Act 1990, which imposes significantly higher fines on violators. Similarly, Japan’s Smoke and Soot Law 1962 specifically targets industrial emissions of dust and smoke, implementing stringent penalties for pollutants that pose health risks. Both countries' legal systems enforce stricter punitive measures than Thailand, resulting in notable reductions in harmful emissions. Therefore, this article suggests revising Thailand's air pollution laws to increase penalties and enhance enforcement. By adapting legislation to reflect the current socio-economic landscape and the gravity of the problem, Thailand can foster greater compliance and effectively mitigate air pollution from industrial sources.
Keyword - Air Pollution, Industrial facilities, Laws