Criticisms are high that people in the eastern hemisphere often found themselves in the submissive world, when people dare not to challenge the opinions of the seniors. As they dare not to present different views, this does not allow the true cooperation.

Opening up could however backfire, if people in the conversation are immature enough to launch emotional debates which could only jeopardise the mutual benefits.

It is necessary that participants possess trust in any conversation or social projects. And a step towards establishing trust is through sharing. This should start from home and school, though some parents still demand good grades as the top priority from their children.

Indeed, they should realise that competition without social responsibility is the root of the social problem. In many parts of the world, elites are challenged by small people due to the absence of social responsibility.

            Through the grouping, the small people are gaining strength. Though they are viewed as the trouble makers, whose demands could delay economic progress, but at the end it would be the driving force for social advancement. Then, all groups would be equally treated and they would see the value of cooperation and sharing.

“Mutual benefit” in the future could bear higher weight than “personal gain”. This could be established through awareness, which through repetitive acts would lead to a mind set. Then, ones would be ready to sacrifice personal gains for social gains.

It is worth noting that the government, the business world and consumers are exploiting natural resources, though the industrial sector is held the sole culprits for polluting the world. It is worth noting that it is people who are putting in place the rules.

            Joint efforts from all parties in addressing the pollution problems in Map Ta Phut are notable. This does not come too late, as many said.

            Technology development has helped speed up good changes. In the past few decades, most factories relied on labour with little investment in technology. Poor management often led to poor quality of products, labour welfare and environment.

            Today, welfares have largely improved. Yes, there are signs of pollution at companies which lack good governance.

            On a visit to the Industry Ministry, I observed a banner urging civil servants to change their mind set through the “ASSA” (Advise, Service, Support and Assist) culture. I’m not sure if this campaign is adopted at all ministries, but I strongly wish that all civil servants one day would uphold this culture.

 By Chamluck Khunpolkaew