In a post to Facebook, the Department of National Parks just announced it's banning the use of plastic and foam in all of Thailand's national parks. 

That hopefully means no more gross plastic bags or foam scraps dirtying up marine and forest parks across the country. See the post below:

The announcement, effectively immediately, follows the disturbing headline news of a whale that died in southern Thailand which was found to have 8kg of plastic inside its stomach. 

This development isn't entirely new as a plastic ban has reportedly already been in effect at certain parks such as Bangsaen Beach in Chonburi and Erawan waterfall, Kanchanaburi. On the other hand, some national parks have previously allowed plastic and foam boxes in some areas. According to the the Department of National Parks, this will no longer be allowed.

The news follows other eco-friendly announcements such as Koh Phi Phi's Maya Bay closing to boats for three months in an effort to prevent damage to its coral, and 24 Thai beaches banning public smoking. 

In the mood for traveling? Check out the 5 national parks closest to Bangkok—just remember to do so responsibly.

 For the latest travel news around Thailand and Southeast Asia follow BK Escapes.