Rapid urbanization and industrial growth have had significant impacts on Thailand’s natural environment. According to the State of the Environment for 2002 developed by the Royal Thai Government (RTG), degradation of the natural environment continues largely unabated due to “natural disasters, impacts from human activities, and inappropriate environmental management.” The report specifically cites Bangkok’s air quality as a pressing concern, and the worsening water quality of Thailand’s rivers. Hazardous waste management remains an on-going challenge, since an estimated 70% of the hazardous waste goes untreated.

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