Bangkok: Bangkok has successfully reduced the number of krathongs collected during the 2024 Loi Krathong Festival by 20 percent, largely due to increased use of biodegradable materials.

According to Thai News Agency, the city’s Environment Department, Drainage Department, and 50 district offices collaborated to gather krathongs from various locations, including the Chao Phraya River, canals, reservoirs, public parks, and district event areas. The collection process took place from 8:00 p.m. on November 15 to 5:00 a.m. the following day.

In total, 514,590 krathongs were collected, with 506,320 made from natural materials, representing 98.39 percent, and 8,270 made from foam, accounting for 1.61 percent. This year’s total marks a decrease of 125,238 krathongs, or 19.57 percent, compared to 2023, when 639,828 krathongs were collected. The introduction of online and digital krathong floating events contributed to this reduction, with 36,832 krathongs floated online and 10,885 floated digitally.

The shift towa
rds environmentally friendly krathongs is evident, with natural materials usage increasing from 96.74 percent last year to 98.39 percent this year, while foam usage dropped from 3.26 percent to 1.61 percent. Lat Krabang District recorded the highest number of krathongs at 20,806, while Khlong San District had the least with 147 krathongs.

Public parks played a significant role in the festivities, with 34 parks accommodating 255,532 participants and collecting 96,508 krathongs, averaging a ratio of three people per krathong. The data indicates a growing awareness among people and vendors about environmental conservation, leading to reduced waste and helping combat global warming.

After collection, krathongs are separated for disposal. Natural and biodegradable krathongs are sent to the Nong Khaem organic fertilizer factory for processing, while foam krathongs are disposed of through landfill methods at designated waste disposal centers, including On Nut, Sai Mai, and Nong Khaem.