The closure of Thailand's borders due to the pandemic has severely impacted the country's elephant tourism industry, leading to the closure of elephant camps and the unemployment of both elephants and their mahouts. With no tourists to provide revenue, some elephants have been put to work in potentially illegal and dangerous logging activities. Ethical sanctuaries like the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary and the Elephant Nature Park, which rely on visitors and donations, have struggled to feed and care for their animals. The Save Elephant Foundation has provided assistance to approximately 2,000 elephants, but the government's support has been minimal. Despite the challenges, there have been positive developments, such as the rescue of 48 elephants and a growing dialogue about improving conditions for captive elephants.

Precious Plastic Bangkok is leading a movement in Thailand to combat plastic pollution by providing communities with plastic recycling machines and training. These machines shred plastic waste and mold it into new products, turning environmental cleanup into profitable ventures. The PepsiCo Foundation has funded machines for seven communities, which are now creating items like pots, bowls, and decorative pieces. The initiative has reached various regions, from Bangkok's narrow alleys to the beaches south of Pattaya and the river estuaries of Samut Sakhon, as well as the northern province of Chiang Rai. The article highlights the positive impact on local communities and the environment, with individuals like Dominic Chakrabongse advocating for producer responsibility laws to further address the issue of plastic waste.

Thailand's plastic pollution problem persists despite a ban on plastic bags involving 75 key retailers. The ban, which was not comprehensive and faced challenges during the lockdown, has not been enough to address the issue. Environmental activists and organizations like Trash Hero, Greenpeace SE Asia, Grin Green International, Climate Strike Thailand, and Refill Station are working towards raising awareness, changing attitudes, and advocating for a more robust waste management system. The government has announced a roadmap to tackle plastic waste by 2030, but skepticism remains about its implementation. The article features insights from various environmental change-makers who are pushing for more significant actions to protect the environment.

Vietnam's ban on wildlife trade to prevent disease outbreaks prompts discussion on whether Thailand should implement similar measures. Steven Galster of Freeland advocates for a strong law to reduce pandemic risks, highlighting Thailand's role as a wildlife trade hub. Illegal trade and legal breeding facilities complicate enforcement, with recent legal improvements still presenting challenges. The illegal wildlife trade is linked to organized crime and disease spread, with calls for better regulation and enforcement. Experts suggest targeted bans on high-risk species rather than blanket prohibitions, emphasizing the need to understand disease spillover dynamics. Freeland's proposed ban aims to reduce illegal trade and pathogen movement, with ongoing discussions with Thai officials on the matter.

The article outlines six key questions for schools to consider when appointing a sustainability lead by 2025, as mandated by the Department for Education. It emphasizes the importance of previous experience, integrating sustainability into the curriculum, motivating colleagues, addressing eco-anxiety in children, communicating with parents, and identifying opportunities for further development. The goal is to ensure that schools equip young people with the necessary skills, knowledge, and attitudes to meet future needs while protecting the planet.

Leung Ban, a waste collector in Bangkok, exemplifies the city's informal recycling system, which is crucial for managing waste but lacks formal protections and stable income. Despite challenges, including fluctuating market prices and health risks, these collectors significantly reduce environmental impact and government costs. Innovations like BeesGreen and Recycle Day aim to improve recycling efficiency and community involvement. As Bangkok strives for 100% recycling by 2030, supporting these unsung heroes is essential for a sustainable future.

Thai fishers, led by Duanpen Jaengpracham, are tackling the issue of 'ghost nets'—abandoned fishing gear that harms marine life. The Environmental Justice Foundation's Net Free Seas project helps recycle these nets, providing economic benefits and reducing marine pollution. Companies like Cirplas Tech and Qualy Design are turning recycled nets into consumer products. Despite these efforts, challenges like climate change, industrial pollution, and illegal fishing persist, threatening the sustainability of Thailand's fishing industry.

The article recounts the author's trekking experience to Gunung Rinjani in Lombok, Indonesia, highlighting the severe litter problem encountered throughout the journey. Despite the breathtaking views and the sacred nature of the site, the presence of garbage at campsites and around the crater lake was disheartening. The author references Lonely Planet's warning about litter and interviews other trekkers who share their dismay. The article also discusses the increase in tourist numbers and the efforts by local authorities to address the litter issue, including a 'trek it in, trek it out' policy and clean-up initiatives. However, the effectiveness of these measures is questioned. The author emphasizes the need for a comprehensive waste management system and responsible trekking practices to preserve Rinjani's beauty.

The article discusses various initiatives in Thailand aimed at tackling environmental issues, particularly plastic pollution. It highlights the efforts of EcoBEASTs, a group formed by international school teachers in Bangkok, which focuses on educating young people about sustainability. The group organized a Community Action Day event at St Andrews International School, featuring workshops and activities. Grin Green International, a student-run initiative, is also mentioned for its campaign against single-use plastics. The article covers the involvement of Thai retail giants like Tesco Lotus and 7-Eleven in reducing plastic bag usage. Additionally, it showcases Precious Plastic Bangkok's recycling machine and Bambew's bamboo straws as examples of innovative solutions to plastic waste. The article emphasizes the importance of educating the younger generation to become future change-makers in environmental conservation.

The UK government's sustainability strategy for schools outlines key proposals to integrate environmental education and practices into the educational system. The strategy includes initiatives such as creating a National Education Nature Park, appointing sustainability leads in schools, providing carbon literacy training, and adapting school buildings to be more eco-friendly. It emphasizes the importance of incorporating sustainability into the curriculum and encourages schools to engage students in practical environmental activities. The strategy also addresses the need for political impartiality in teaching climate science and introduces a Climate Leaders Award to recognize contributions to sustainability. The article highlights the challenges and opportunities for educators in implementing these initiatives.