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Published on July 7, 2007

According to one leading activist, many manufacturers at Map Ta Phut publicised "green activities" following news of a possible link between toxic emissions from the estate and high instances of cancer in residents living in its vicinity.

Eastern People's Network coordinator Suthi Atchasai suspected listed PVC maker Vinythai had a "hidden agenda" in its community-based project to revive staghorn coral reefs, using its plastic tubes.

Vinythai recently invited the news media to view its staghorn coral project at Samaesarn beach near Sattahip, Chon Buri.

The programme is being conducted by a maritime foundation and the company said it wants to create community awareness about preserving coastal areas.

It repairs storm-damaged reefs with metal rods and plastic pipe, allowing coral to grow again. The foundation has replanted 10,000 staghorn coral stems.

"We are trying to educate coastal communities who rely on the environment for their livelihoods that their actions may lead to more environmental degradation - such as using dynamite to kill fish or discharging untreated waste into the sea," company corporate affairs and communications assistant vice president Sompot Cheeranorawanich said.

Suthi admitted the project was a good initiative but added the company could do more to help residents repair the environment.

He wanted Vinythai to improve its own production processes instead of blaming Map Ta Phut villagers' ways of life for illnesses.

"What kind of chemical substances are used in PVC production and what kind of toxic gases are emitted? I think it its better if the company discloses information on the environmental impact of its own production as well as inviting residents to inspect the factory rather than growing coral," he said.

Meanwhile, Kasetsart University marine scientist Thorn Thamrongnasawadi said the foundation and company were sincere in restoring coral.

"I support the project in that it is a good tool to build awareness among students and locals about the preservation of coral and other marine resources. But, I don't think it can restore reefs as the company claims. Scientists around the world can only grow coral stem by stem - they can't build or restore coral reefs," he said.