Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in Thailand is a mandatory legal process for certain projects that may affect the environment, natural resources, and nearby communities. Businesses planning infrastructure, industrial, or large-scale developments must comply with EIA requirements before obtaining licenses or approvals. Below are frequently asked questions explaining how Environmental Impact Assessment in Thailand works.
The main purpose of an EIA in Thailand is to ensure that decision-makers consider environmental impacts when deciding whether or not to proceed with a project. This helps prevent environmental problems from major industrial and infrastructure projects and supports sustainable development goals.
This procedure is important in determining the type and level of effects that an existing facility is having, or that a proposed project may have, and in identifying options to minimize damage to the natural environment.
Projects or activities that may seriously affect environmental quality, natural resources, or biological diversity are not permitted unless the environmental and health impacts on affected communities have been studied and evaluated.
Furthermore, before the project or activity can proceed, the project proponent must:
For projects or activities that may negatively affect the living conditions of nearby communities and require Cabinet approval, the authorization process is typically more time-consuming and involves additional stakeholders to ensure compliance with the law.
The Environmental Impact Evaluation Bureau (EIEB), under the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP), administers the EIA process. Large-scale projects with significant environmental impacts must submit EIA reports to ONEP.
ONEP conducts an initial review of the EIA report. If the report is incomplete or incorrect, it will be returned to the project proponent for revision. If the report is complete, ONEP provides preliminary comments and forwards the report to the Expert Review Committee (ERC) for consideration.
The ERC evaluates the report and may:
If approved, ONEP provides recommendations to the relevant permitting agency. Where Cabinet approval is required, ONEP summarizes the ERC’s comments and submits them to the National Environment Board (NEB) and the Cabinet for further consideration.
If the report is approved, the permitting agency may grant permission for the project subject to conditions, such as mitigation measures and environmental monitoring requirements. If not approved, the project proponent must revise and resubmit the report for further review.
EIA reports must be prepared by licensed consulting firms registered with ONEP. The Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, with approval from the National Environment Board, determines which types and sizes of projects require an EIA.
Examples of projects that may require an EIA include:
Understanding Environmental Impact Assessment requirements in Thailand can be complex, particularly for foreign investors and developers. Our legal team assists with regulatory compliance, coordination with licensed consultants, and guidance throughout the approval process.
Contact us today to ensure your project meets Thailand’s environmental requirements before applying for permits.
Legal DisclaimerÂ
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations may change, and specific cases require professional assessment.
Licensed Attorney-At-Law | Licensed Notarial Services Attorney, The Lawyers Council of Thailand
Specialization: Civil Thai Law and Litigation for more than 30 Years
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