Thailand

Policies to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Practices

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Thailand has established several policies to promote environmentally sustainable practices in rubber cultivation, primarily through the Rubber Authority of Thailand Act (2015). This act outlines eligibility criteria for farmers seeking assistance for replanting, requiring that they possess ownership or legal rights to the land used for rubber plantations. While specific regulations to prevent the clearing of forests for commercial cultivation have not been detailed, the act supports sustainable land management practices.

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The Rubber Authority of Thailand (RAOT) encourages environmentally friendly agricultural practices, such as the establishment of leguminous cover crops in rubber plantations to enhance soil quality and prevent erosion. Additionally, the RAOT is working on a project to increase the value of rubberwood by developing a certification system that aligns with Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) standards. This initiative aims to ensure sustainable management of rubber plantations, covering approximately 10,240 hectares across Eastern and Northern Thailand.

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Moreover, Thailand promotes biodiversity within rubber holdings by encouraging farmers to plant other tree species alongside rubber trees. This practice not only diversifies income sources and mitigates risks but also contributes to ecosystem health. Although details about policies regulating the use of pesticides, effluent treatment, and certification for sustainable practices are not extensively reported, the ongoing projects reflect Thailand’s commitment to enhancing the sustainability and ecological integrity of its rubber industry.

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