Air pollution is a problem in many countries. Thailand is one of them. According to IQAir, Thailand’s PM2.5 concentration (fine particles 2.5 micrometres in diameter or less) is currently 4 times the World Health Organization annual PM2.5 guideline value.

Northern Thailand Thai football league, Lamphun Warriors F.C., has joined with the Northern Thailand Breath Council (NTBC) and creative agency, Flash Bomber, to launch a unique awareness campaign, The Air Pollution Jersey. The campaign replaces Lamphun Warriors F.C.’s traditional white home jersey with a collection of six jerseys, each in a distinct colour visually representing the the severity of PM2.5 air pollution based on the Air Quality Index (AQI) levels on match day.   

The jerseys’ six colours represent different air quality levels:

• Green (Good): Air quality is satisfactory and poses little or no risk
• Yellow (Moderate): Sensitive individuals should avoid outdoor activity as they may experience respiratory symptoms.
• Orange (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups): General public and sensitive individuals in particular are at risk to experience irritation and respiratory problems.
• Red (Unhealthy): Increased likelihood of adverse effects and aggravation to the heart and lungs among the general public.
• Purple (Very Unhealthy): General public will be noticeably affected. Sensitive groups should restrict outdoor activities.
• Maroon (Hazardous): General public at high risk of experiencing strong irritations and adverse health effects. Should avoid outdoor activities.

The campaign was officially launched during the pre-game ceremony between Lamphun Warriors F.C. and Buriram United F.C. Lamphun Warriors F.C. Players took to the field wearing the Air Pollution Jersey, allowing both stadium audiences and TV viewers to witness the jersey in action and acknowledge the serious impact of the air pollution crisis in Northern Thailand and Southeast Asia. A campaign banner was also displayed during the ceremony, urging both public and private sector authorities to address the PM2.5 issues impacting Northern Thai residents and footballers.

Lamphun province, one of the hardest-hit areas in Northern Thailand, suffers from severe PM2.5 pollution annually, largely due to slash-and-burn agriculture, vehicle emissions, and poor air circulation. Despite government efforts urging the public to stay indoors during high PM2.5 periods, footballers don’t have that option. Matches are rarely postponed, forcing players to expose themselves to unsafe air conditions, which can impact not only their performance but also their long-term health.

“Footballers, unlike most of us, cannot work from home. They are required to train and compete outdoors, regardless of how hazardous the air may be,” said Thanasorn Janekankit, creative chairman of Flash Bomber. “This campaign aims to highlight their vulnerability, as they are among the groups most affected by PM2.5 air pollution.”

“Air pollution is not just an environmental issue, it’s a national health emergency,” said Wittaya Krongsub, a representative from the Northern Thailand Breath Council Foundation (NTBC). “Through this collaboration, we hope to turn every match into a wake-up call for action, especially in protecting those who breathe in the danger every day.”

The Air Pollution Jersey campaign asks for decisive action to combat PM2.5 pollution through both short-term and long-term solutions. In the short term, rescheduling matches during peak pollution periods would allow footballers to compete safely. In the long term, pushing for the Clean Air Act to be passed and enforced this year, along with improved tracking and regulation of PM2.5 levels, would help create a safer environment for future seasons.

Credits
Clients: Lamphun Warriors F.C. & Northern Thailand Breath Council (NTBC)
Lamphun Warriors F.C. Head of Media: Panut Pongda

Creative Agency: Flash Bomber
Chief Creative Officer: Thanasorn Janekankit
Creative Director: Supachai Limvutivong
Copywriters: Thanasorn Janekankit, Supachai Limvutivong & Tin Siridej
Senior Art Director: Nattakit Satitviboon
Business Director: Sujira Srivarakiat
Account Manager: Nachan Neanchaleay
Account Executive: Kulsinee Thatinjan
Agency Producer: Nutcha Mauthorn

Production House: CINE HOUSE
Cinematographers: Pawaruth Lokrud & Nuttakant Luengphiphatchai
Photographers: Issarate Devahuti & Peasadet Compiranont