BANGKOK — In a major policy shift aimed at tackling the capital’s mounting waste problem, Bangkok households that fail to separate their garbage will now face a threefold increase in monthly waste collection fees—from 20 to 60 baht—following a Cabinet resolution passed at the end of 2024.
This move marks a departure from years of voluntary recycling campaigns, as city officials transition toward a regulation-based system to enforce better waste management. Authorities say the success of the initiative now hinges on widespread public cooperation.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) had previously offered incentives such as free bins in 2017 for households that joined district-led sorting efforts. But despite these initiatives, progress was limited. A key issue has been public scepticism: waste collectors were frequently observed mixing sorted trash during collection, undermining citizens’ efforts and sparking frustration online.
Now, the BMA is doubling down with stricter enforcement and clearer logistics. Households that comply with the waste separation guidelines will continue to pay the lower fee, while violators will bear the financial burden. The new system involves designated drop-off points and scheduled pickups for food waste and general refuse on different days.
Officials argue the higher fees reflect the city’s real waste disposal costs—now exceeding THB7 billion annually—and are meant to encourage households to reduce waste at the source.
To raise awareness, the city has launched the campaign “This House Separates Waste: Reduce Fees by Sorting,” urging Bangkokians to adopt sustainable habits and help alleviate the environmental burden.
While early success depends on proper enforcement and transparency in collection practices, many residents remain cautiously optimistic, calling for continued oversight to ensure the system works as intended.
