The Industry Ministry in Thailand is set to propose a subsidy programme aimed at encouraging the purchase of all parts of sugarcane from farmers in an effort to reduce the burning of harvest leftovers, a key contributor to PM2.5 air pollution.
PM2.5 refers to dust particles that measure 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter. Long-term exposure to these particles is associated with chronic health issues, including respiratory diseases.
PM2.5 pollution is primarily caused by traffic emissions, industrial activity, forest fires, and the burning of harvest waste.
With a budget of 7 billion baht, the proposed scheme is designed to incentivize farmers to harvest and sell 100% of their sugarcane, eliminating the need to burn stumps and leaves before the next planting cycle, said Industry Minister Akanat Promphan on Friday.
Inedible parts of the sugarcane, including the leaves, will be sold to biomass power plants for use as fuel, he added.
According to media reports, Akanat noted that 58 sugar producers across the country have expressed interest in participating in the scheme. These producers have also agreed to stop purchasing sugarcane from farmers who continue to burn their crops, as part of efforts to help reduce pollution.
For more details and in-depth insights, keep reading ChiniMandi, your go-to source for the latest news on the Sugar and Allied Sectors news.
