On June 20, the International Symposium on Haze Control in Northern Thailand, jointly organized by the Chinese Consulate General in Chiang Mai, the Foreign Economic Cooperation Office of China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment, the Thai Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and the Chiang Mai Provincial Government, was held in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Consul General Chen Haiping of the Chinese Consulate General in Chiang Mai and Aroonu, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Thailand’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, attended and delivered speeches. Over 100 participants, including representatives from relevant government departments and research institutions in China, Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos, as well as business leaders and farmers, joined the event.

Dr. Zhang Hanlin, a researcher from Eco-Environmental Protection Research Institute of SAAS, was invited as an expert speaker and delivered a keynote address titled "Research and Practice on Circular Utilization Technologies of Crop Straws." The presentation systematically reviewed the evolution of China’s straw-burning ban policies, analyzed current models and practical achievements in comprehensive straw utilization, and highlighted key equipment and core technologies independently developed by SAAS in the field of straw resource utilization. After the speech, Dr. Zhang engaged in in-depth discussions with attendees on topics such as technology application and policy implementation.

This symposium provided an important platform for regional haze control exchanges. Representatives from various countries shared successful experiences in haze governance and straw utilization, unanimously agreeing to strengthen international cooperation in ecological and environmental protection. The consensus reached at the meeting will serve as a valuable reference for improving regional air quality, promoting sustainable agricultural development, and safeguarding public health and well-being. Participants expressed particular gratitude to the Chinese Consulate General in Chiang Mai for organizing this international exchange platform and voiced their interest in learning from China’s advanced governance practices. They hoped to collectively address the haze challenges in northern Thailand through coordinated efforts across government, society, and individuals.