Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) announced the results of this year’s Loy Krathong Festival cleanup, with 514,590 floating lanterns (krathong) collected across various areas. Of these, 98.39% (506,320 krathong) were made from biodegradable natural materials, while 1.61% (8,270 krathong) were made of foam, marking a significant environmental improvement compared to 2023. The total number of krathong decreased by 19.57%, or 125,238 fewer items than the 639,828 collected last year.

Cleanup operations involved the Environmental Department managing the Chao Phraya River, the Drainage Department overseeing canals and reservoirs, and district offices covering public parks and event venues. Efforts began at 8 PM on November 15 and concluded by 5 AM the following morning.

Key Highlights from 2024 Loy Krathong:

  • Natural Materials Preferred: Use of biodegradable krathong increased from 96.74% in 2023 to 98.39%, while foam krathong decreased from 3.26% to 1.61%.
  • Participation Trends: Online Loy Krathong was introduced for the first time, with 36,832 virtual krathong floated, and digital krathong activities at four sites generating 10,885 participants.
  • District Data: Lat Krabang collected the highest number of krathong (20,806), while Khlong San reported the fewest (147).
  • Public Park Use: Among the 34 parks opened for the festival, 255,532 visitors participated, producing 96,508 krathong—equivalent to one krathong per three attendees.

Collected krathong were sorted and sent to one of three waste management centers in On Nut, Sai Mai, and Nong Khaem. Biodegradable materials were repurposed for organic fertilizer or landfill, while foam krathong were properly disposed of.

The increasing adoption of eco-friendly materials reflects growing public and commercial awareness of environmental conservation. This shift reduces waste management burdens and contributes to combating climate change, reinforcing a commitment to sustainable cultural practices.