BANGKOK/VIENTIANE (Laotian Times): Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar have agreed on a new joint plan to tackle PM2.5 air pollution, using satellite data and shared monitoring to better control forest fires and agricultural burning.
The plan, covering 2026–2027, focuses on the dry season, when smoke and haze regularly spread across borders, especially in northern Laos, northern Thailand, and parts of Myanmar.
Under the agreement, the three countries will share satellite images and real-time data to track wildfire hotspots, including in border areas where fires often go unchecked. Officials say this will allow earlier warnings and faster responses before pollution worsens.
The strategy has three main parts. First, satellite mapping will be used to identify areas at high risk of fires before the burning season begins. Second, air-quality data will be shared across countries to improve monitoring and early alerts.
Third, governments will promote alternatives to slash-and-burn farming by working with farmers and agribusinesses.
Public awareness and local involvement are also part of the plan, with authorities aiming to reduce open burning through community participation and private-sector support.
The agreement builds on earlier regional efforts, including the CLEAR Sky Strategy launched in 2024.
Officials say the new plan reflects growing recognition that PM2.5 pollution is a cross-border problem that cannot be solved by one country alone. -- Laotian Times
