The Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, car and oil companies have joined hands to reduce PM2.5 dust emissions from vehicle exhausts, which account for 72% of PM2.5 in the atmosphere in the capital.
Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga said on Monday that the ministry has adopted measures to reduce PM2.5, which include improving the quality of car fuel to Euro-5 grade, persuading car owners to get their vehicles serviced regularly and supporting the transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs).
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said city officials have conducted tests on infrequently and frequently serviced diesel engines, replacing fuel filters, using Euro-3 fuel. The tests show that replacing fuel, air and oil filters can reduce PM2.5 emissions by about 25%.
Natural Resources and Environment Permanent Secretary Jatuporn Buruspat said that El Niño is likely to worsen the PM2.5 situation next year, especially in cities where traffic is congested.
He said the ministry has coordinated with nine car companies to offer free car engine checks, discounts on car maintenance and engine oil changes until next April.
