The Faculty of Public Health, in collaboration with ThaiHealth and the Department of Industrial Works, hosted the project titled “Workshop to Promote and Develop the Capacity of Communities and Environmental and Health Surveillance Networks through Multi-sectoral Participatory Mechanisms, Especially Public Participation, and to Build Strategic Partnerships at the Local Level” from June 17–18, 2025, at Ratchaphruek B Conference Room, Sunrise Lagoon Hotel and Golf, Tha Thonglang Sub-district, Bang Khla District, Chachoengsao Province.
Project Coordinator: Associate Professor Dr. Kowit Suwannahong
Objectives:
The workshop’s primary objective was to enhance knowledge and understanding of factory environmental surveillance and develop effective and efficient public participation strategies. This would empower communities to collaboratively monitor and address potential local ecological and health issues.
Program Activities:
On the first day, the workshop commenced with a project briefing delivered by the Director of the Eco-Industrial Development Division, Department of Industrial Works, followed by the official opening speech by an executive representative from the Department of Industrial Works. The morning session featured an “Essential Laws and Citizens’ Rights” lecture by Associate Professor Dr. Kowit Suwannahong, Dean of the Faculty of Public Health, Burapha University. The lecture covered the Factory Act, environmental laws, labour laws, and guidelines for issuing local ordinances to prevent the establishment of specific types of factories. It also included information on public access to information laws, urban planning regulations, and laws concerning public hearings.
Expected Outcomes (Impacts):
In the afternoon, workshop activities included sessions on “Environmental Surveillance: Identifying Hazardous Pollutants” and “Reporting Channels and Procedures for Public Complaints.” The second day of the training focused on case studies related to complaint processes and solutions to environmental problems, followed by a workshop on formulating policy recommendations, measures, approaches, or legal amendments to support improved environmental and health governance at the local level.
Date of Implementation: June 17-18, 2025
