Spatial analysis of the environmental conflict between state, society and industry at the Map Ta Phut-Rayong conurbation in Thailand

Abstract

Industrialization is a common strategy adapted by developing countries in order to stimulate urban development and socio-economic development. Unless guided by a stringent development plan, industrialization-based urban development can lead to negative environmental consequences. This paper examines the environmental conflict that raged into an impasse between the state, society and industry stakeholders at the Map Ta Put industrial zone of the Eastern Seaboard Development Program of Thailand. Using RS– GIS tools, the study conducted a spatial–environmental analysis to elucidate the causes for the conflict and the outcome of the pragmatic approach of the state to resolve it. The study finds expansion of industries and spread of industrial air pollution beyond the buffer zone into the surrounding residential area as the main reasons for the conflict. The policy interventions by the government since 2007 were found to be ineffective to resolve the conflict. Based on the lessons learnt, the study recommends a three-pronged approach to guide similar type of industrial development toward green growth in future.