Thailand Launches Climate Adaptation Report Consultation Forum
Thailand held a public consultation on its draft climate report, with officials warning that the country's vulnerability to extreme weather has surged dramatically, ranking 17th globally in 2024 compared to 69th the previous year.
Thailand's climate change and environment department partnered with UNDP to hold a public hearing on the draft Fifth National Report and the second Biennial Transparency Report (NC5/BTR2), specifically focusing on Chapter 4 regarding climate change impacts and adaptation. Dr. Pirun Saiyasitpanich, Director-General of the Department of Climate Change and Environment, chaired the July 3 consultation meeting at Pullman King Power Bangkok, bringing together stakeholders from all sectors to gather expert feedback and sectoral data. The goal is to develop a comprehensive, accurate national report that fully reflects Thailand's climate vulnerabilities.
Dr. Pirun highlighted that current climate conditions are intensifying and fluctuating rapidly. The World Meteorological Organization has warned of a "super El Niño" phenomenon raising sea surface temperatures 2 degrees Celsius above normal with critical global impacts. According to the 2026 Climate Risk Index by Germanwatch, Thailand's vulnerability to extreme weather has dramatically increased, ranking 17th globally in 2024—a sharp rise from 69th in 2023. This poses direct threats to national security across food, water, health, tourism, investment sectors, and the nation's competitiveness, particularly for vulnerable populations with limited adaptive capacity.
"Developing the NC5/BTR2 report, especially Chapter 4 on impacts and adaptation, is a critical strategic priority for Thailand," Dr. Pirun stated. "It fulfills our international commitments under the Paris Agreement and UNFCCC framework while serving as an essential tool to assess progress on Thailand's National Adaptation Plan, strengthening our mechanisms to protect rights and build sustainable economic and social resilience."
Ms. Niamh Collier-Smith, UNDP Thailand representative, emphasized international cooperation, noting the project receives support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to advance the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF). The working team presented draft baseline framework documents and data reference sheets to standardize how partner agencies collect and report climate adaptation metrics.
The department invited government agencies, private sector organizations, educational institutions, and civil society to review the draft report and submit feedback, statistics, and case studies via Google Form or email ([email protected]). The report aims to comprehensively address gender equality and social inclusion in Thailand's climate adaptation efforts.
