Thailand's National Parks Ban Plastic Bags And Styrofoam Containers

Thailand is taking steps to become more environmentally-friendly and reduce harm to our planet. Various initiatives are in place, including a recent ban on disposable cartons and plastic bags in places of natural significance.

Conditions of the ban

As of 8 June 2018, visitors are prohibited from taking plastic carrier bags, foam boxes, cups, and containers into all of Thailand’s 150+ national parks. The ban also extends to zoos that fall under the control of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. The country’s National Park Office announced the new measures via Facebook, along with reasons for the decision.

Reasons for the ban

Many meals in Thailand come in disposable containers

The Facebook announcement details how long it takes for various items to decompose, highlighting that a plastic bag takes 20 years to break down and a styrofoam container takes up to 1,000 years to decay.

The rapid ban is likely a knee-jerk reaction to the recent horrifying case of a whale washing up on Thailand’s shores with some 80 carrier bags in its digestive system.

Reactions to the ban

Given that the “ban” is in fact more of a request (with little by way of sanctions outlined at this time), many people are confused as to how the prohibitions will actually be implemented. Internet users have been quick to point out that many stores within the national parks and zoos use plastic and foam packaging, coming up with further ideas to help the environment. Suggestions include urging stores within the parks to use biodegradable materials, having more reuse disposal points, and installing water bottle refill points. Some people encourage visitors to use reusable canvas shopping bags when packing a picnic. One user is very direct, stating that everyone needs to develop more of an environmental conscience and take their trash home with them as opposed to tossing it away anywhere they please.

In general, most people express support for the idea but can see that there needs to be much more by way of enforcement and tandem schemes to make a difference.

Though there are still large steps to take, Thailand is actively trying to be more sustainable and environmentally aware. From innovative attempts to shock coral back to life to regular beach clean-ups, there are now various initiatives, big and small, that seek to make a difference.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.