THE IMPACT OF ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS CLEAN TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF CARBON CREDITS IN THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY IN BANGKOK

Abstract

The manufacturing sector in Bangkok is a vital economic pillar but also significant greenhouse gas contributor. In response to increasing sustainability pressures, carbon credit mechanisms have been promoted as a market-based approach to support industrial emission reduction. This research aims to understand, in more detail the influence of environmental regulations, clean technology adoption, and environmental awareness on carbon credit implementation. The three independent variables analysed to explain carbon credit implementation are environmental regulations, clean technology adoption, and environmental awareness. Environmental regulations are examined through regulatory clarity, compliance requirements, and enforcement strength, while clean technology adoption is assessed based on investment in clean technologies, technological capability, and innovation efficiency. Environmental awareness is evaluated through management awareness, employee awareness, and organizational environmental culture. A quantitative dataset was collected comprising 400 professionals working in electronics, automotive, textile, and food and beverage manufacturing industries in the Bangkok Metropolitan Region. Snowball sampling technique was used to collect responses in the forms of an anonymous online survey to ensure questionnaire integrity and honesty. The questionnaire consists of multiple-choice questions during the first section of demographic questions and then a series of 5-point Likert questions regarding the independent variables and the dependent variable. The results of the study indicate that all of the hypotheses proposed are supported. The study suggests that there is a notable relationship between the independent variables and the dependent variable. The findings suggest that while regulatory frameworks provide an essential foundation, successful adoption relies heavily on private sector investment in clean technologies and the development of an environmentally conscious workforce. This research offers actionable insights for policymakers and industry leaders to accelerate Thailand’s low-carbon transition.