Thailand, Japan to launch eco-friendly dumpsite

A dumpsite in Thailand's Nakhon Ratchasima province is set to become eco-friendly in collaboration with Japanese authorities, the media reported on Saturday.

Wijarn Simachaya, chief of Thailand's Pollution Control Department (PCD) on Friday announced the 8.5 million baht ($239,157) Semi-Aerobic Landfill dumpsite in Sikhio district will use the "Fukuoka method". It will be implemented by the PCD, Japan's Fukuoka prefecture government, the Kyushu International Centre and the Environmental Sanitation Centre, The Nation online reported.

"This technique will allow bacteria to tackle waste more efficiently, and ensure proper wastewater treatment," Wijarn said. The technique will efficiently dispose off both household and industrial waste, he said.

Two types of pipes are put under the waste disposal area, which will have waterproof sheet membranes. Other pipes are used to drain wastewater that leaks from trash - to a treatment site.

Takenori Kamasaki, of the Fukuoka government, said the "Fukuoka method" was found to be the most popular and reliable way to handle waste.

"After 50 years of success, it has become a role model across Japan," he said.

Embracing the Japanese technique, the new 7,299 cubic metre-capacity dumping site will rely on a mechanical biological treatment system.