Sanaa:A collaborative action plan has been introduced by Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar to tackle the seasonal haze pollution and forest fires that severely impact the Mekong subregion.

According to Lao News Agency, the initiative, known as the Joint Plan of Action - CLEAR Sky Strategy (2024-2030), was developed in coordination with the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Thai Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and the governments of Laos and Myanmar. This strategy aims to reduce fire hotspots, enhance air-quality monitoring, and encourage sustainable land management practices.

The CLEAR Sky Strategy is founded on five key priorities Continued Commitment, Leveraging Mechanisms, Experience Sharing, Air Quality Network, and Response. It is an extension of a trilateral agreement made in April 2023 and complements the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution.

Key components of the plan include creating a shared fire-risk map, improving cooperation among firefighters, and developing a joint monitoring system that provides real-time air-quality and PM2.5 data. Additionally, the plan focuses on enhancing public health warnings and examining the impacts of haze on health, the economy, and the environment.

To address agricultural residue burning, the plan promotes sustainable farming practices, technology transfer, and public awareness campaigns. It also emphasizes strengthening law enforcement and improving coordination among environmental, agricultural, health, and security agencies.

A joint working group, consisting of national focal points from the three countries, will oversee the plan's implementation, meeting at least annually. The plan also seeks support from other ASEAN members, the private sector, and international partners to address the root causes of seasonal transboundary haze pollution effectively.