Showing 1 - 10 of 12
Green buildings in an urban jungle
Spectrum, Angus Mitchell, Published on 13/04/2014
» Is it possible to live green in a concrete jungle like Bangkok? Does Thailand have policies to stimulate sustainable development? The UN World Commission on Environment and Development in 1987 defined sustainable development as development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Let there be light−Part:I
Spectrum, Angus Mitchell, Published on 23/02/2014
» We often take for granted the fact that when we walk into a room we can simply flip a switch and the darkness becomes light. However, have you ever stopped to consider how the electricity got to that light bulb, from where and through what method it was generated, or who regulates the sale and distribution of electric power? Over the next few weeks we are going to answer all of these questions and more as we explore Thailand’s electrical industry.
Righting the waterway wrongs
Spectrum, Angus Mitchell, Published on 16/02/2014
» Last week, we began wading into the issue of water pollution in Bangkok by taking a look at the laws and government agencies that regulate the waterways. After defining the different factors that are tested for when determining the level of water pollution in a given area, we compared the statistics found by the Pollution Control Department (PCD) to the standards set forth by the US EPA. This week, we will try to trace that pollution back to its source and discover why the waterways are as filthy as they are, as well as look at a couple of high-profile cases of citizens fighting back against the polluters that illegally dump toxins where fishermen fish and swimmers swim.
Breathing easier in bangkok _ Part III
Spectrum, Angus Mitchell, Published on 02/02/2014
» Over the past couple of weeks we have been examining the legislative and public policy changes from the early 1990s to today that have together resulted in the improvement in Bangkok's air quality. However, more still needs to be done to bring Bangkok's air quality up to par with the rest of Thailand and to reach the standards being set by cities like Tokyo and Singapore.
No work and all play
Spectrum, Angus Mitchell, Published on 05/01/2014
» Those of us who live and work in Thailand or many who just come to the Land of Smiles for a holiday often dream about retiring here. It may be on the Southern beaches with a coconut in hand or perhaps it means being surrounded by nature and rolling hills in the elevated northern provinces. Though Thailand does not have a formal campaign to attract retirees, such as Malaysia's ''Malyasia My Second Home'' programme, an increasing number of expats are deciding to sample the luxuries of retired life in Thailand.
High returns for snakes on a plane
Spectrum, Angus Mitchell, Published on 24/11/2013
» Wildlife trafficking is a global multibillion-dollar industry that is primarily orchestrated by well-funded and powerful international criminal syndicates. Although much media attention has been paid to the plight of exotic and endangered animals as they are transported to and from Thailand, which has become a global hub for animal trafficking, little has been done to change the status quo.
WAGERING YOUR FREEDOM _ Part three
Spectrum, Angus Mitchell, Published on 03/11/2013
» To wrap up our series of articles on gambling, this week we will look at the law in practise, and see how it is applied to real-world situations. Regular readers will recall that gambling in Thailand is regulated by the Gambling Act and its implementing legislation. The act prohibits betting on games of chance or skill unless the organiser possesses a licence or an exemption has been made where a licence is not required. It is not required for promoters to display their licence when hosting an event. However, most organisers do so as the knowledge that a gambling event is sanctioned by the government and is therefore legal, and would be an obvious marketing drawcard for participants. In practice, if you don't see a licence prominently displayed, it would be wise to check with the organiser as to the legal status of the event.
GAMBLING IN THE KINGDOM _ Part two
Spectrum, Angus Mitchell, Published on 27/10/2013
» Last week we introduced the Gambling Act BE 2478 (1935), which prohibits all forms of betting and games of skill or chance where a wager, either in the form of money or goods, is placed on the outcome. Providing an overview of the only two legal forms of gambling in the Kingdom, the national lottery and domestic horse racing, we explained how each operates and how the public can engage in legalised gambling through these outlets.
Betting the farm
Spectrum, Angus Mitchell, Published on 20/10/2013
» Whether it's an agreement that the loser buys the next round before the billiard balls are broken, a Super Bowl or FA Cup office pool, or practising your poker face during a game of Texas hold'em with the guys, gambling is well integrated into the fabric of societies around the world. While betting a little money during any of these pastimes can add a bit of excitement to a sporting or recreational event, they are all illegal in Thailand. Loser buys the drinks? In Thailand, even the winner can go to jail.
Insurance and icewine don't mix
Spectrum, Angus Mitchell, Published on 13/10/2013
» Over the previous weeks, we have addressed a number of laws regarding the consumption of alcohol and the use of your motor vehicle. We have also covered many of the penalties that can be imposed upon a drink-driver.