The Challenge of Promoting Greater Use of Economic Instruments in Thailand: Lessons Learned from the Draft Act on Economic Instruments for Environmental Management

Authors

Sujitra Vassanadumrongdee
Panate Manomaivibool

Publication Date

2014-05-01

Abstract

Current policies and plans geared toward green growth/green economy emphasize the greater use of economic instruments. This paper reviews the past and current application of economic instruments (EIs) in environmental management in Thailand. Insights gained from documentary research indicate that EIs such as product taxes through collection of excise taxes have been relatively effective, whilst user charges for solid waste and waste water treatment have been found to be unsuccessful in Thailand. Lessons learned from the draft Act on Economic Instruments for Environmental Management indicate several institutional constraints towards the extensive application of EIs. This paper provides some suggestions to overcome these challenges includinginstitutional reforms, an appropriate mix of policy instruments, and proactive roles of academiain raising environmental awareness and knowledge of the relevant authorities and the general public which could increase political support for environmental policies and the use of EIs in particular.

First Page

39

Last Page

51

Recommended Citation

Vassanadumrongdee, Sujitra and Manomaivibool, Panate (2014) "The Challenge of Promoting Greater Use of Economic Instruments in Thailand: Lessons Learned from the Draft Act on Economic Instruments for Environmental Management," Applied Environmental Research: Vol. 36: No. 3, Article 4.
Available at: https://digital.car.chula.ac.th/aer/vol36/iss3/4