Effective Environmental Policy Management for Green Spaces of Bangkok Metropolitan Administration

Abstract

          In this research, the researcher examines the environmental policy for the green spaces of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA); investigates the problems and obstacles in the management according to the environmental policy for green spaces of the BMA; and proposes guidelines for the development of an effective environmental policy management for the green spaces of the BMA.

          The technique of qualitative research was employed. Data from documentary research were analyzed. The technique of in-depth interview was used to collect data with a semi-structured interview form as an instrument. Key informants were selected by using the technique of purposive sampling and divided into three groups, the policy level group, the practitioner level group, and the local area group.

          Findings show that the environmental policy for the green spaces of the BMA is set as the major policy of the BMA governor. However, the policy differs in accordance with the context of each BMA governor in office in the following manner. The formation of policy is in a top-down approach with an allocated budget and policy implementation by concerned agencies. Green spaces spread throughout all areas of Bangkok to be in proportion appropriate with the needs of residents which is in consonance with a good quality of life of all residents as set by WHO at nine square meters per one person. Problems are found to arise from the unclarity of the environmental policy for the green spaces of BMA executives, participation of public agencies and residents, related laws and law enforcement, communication, and budget. This results in the set policy not really covering all the problems. In regard to guidelines for the development of an effective environmental policy management for the green spaces of the BMA, the policy unclarity should be solved together with related laws and law enforcement. A framework must be created for the development by providing an opportunity for residents using green spaces to have participation. Attention should be paid for communication channels to make them clear. A budget should be allocated to create sufficient and appropriate green spaces.