Phuket City is set to introduce a community waste bank program in an effort to manage the growing waste problem on the island, which now generates 1,200 tonnes of trash daily. The initiative aims to encourage waste separation and recycling while addressing the strain on existing waste disposal infrastructure.
Deputy Mayor Supachok Laongpetch outlined the program on Wednesday, highlighting the importance of collaboration between local authorities and communities. The waste banks will allow residents to sort recyclable materials such as plastic, glass bottles, and paper, which can then be sold, reducing overall waste and promoting sustainable practices. The project is expected to expand to other parts of the province over time.
Phuket’s waste volume has risen significantly in recent years, from 742 tonnes per day in 2022 to 961 tonnes in 2023, largely due to a rebound in tourism. The province operates a single incineration plant capable of processing 700 tonnes daily. However, ongoing maintenance on one of its units has temporarily reduced capacity to 300 tonnes per day, forcing 900 tonnes of waste into landfills.
To address the growing waste burden, Phuket authorities have approved the construction of a waste-to-energy plant by a private company. Once completed in 2027, the facility is expected to process 500 tonnes of waste daily and generate 10 megawatts of electricity.
The island currently has five landfills, covering 120 rai (approximately 19 hectares). Three older sites have been closed due to their proximity to residential areas, while two newer sites near the coast are still in use. Additionally, the municipality has set up a hazardous waste management facility to handle materials such as batteries, fluorescent lights, and spray cans, ensuring proper disposal. Infectious waste from hospitals, averaging 2.2 tonnes per day, is treated through steam sterilisation to prevent disease transmission.
Local officials and community representatives have supported the waste bank initiative as a step toward improving waste management on the island.
