D makes recommendations for the establishment of environmental quality standards and emission/effluent standards and has the authority to set the criteria, methods and conditions for pollution management of solid waste, hazardous substances, water quality, air quality, noise and vibration levels. Through its Inspection and Enforcement Division, the PCD conducts compliance inspections based on citizen complaints as well as routine schedules, from which it issues administrative fines against violators under its jurisdiction and coordinates with the Office of the Attorney General to bring enforcement actions against violators.
To partner with industry in improving environmental compliance and reducing pollution, PCD is pioneering the use of Compliance Assistance Centers. These centers hold training and technology workshops for industry leaders and publish manuals on best practices for pollution control. The PCD also builds human resource capacity through the Thailand Air Pollution Center for Excellence (TAPCE). TAPCE provides education and training for environmental practitioners and supports research and development for air pollution control technology.