Crime and Pollution in Koh Samui

Crime Data in Koh Samui

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Koh Samui presents an overall impression of safety, with crime levels primarily perceived as low. Residents generally express a high sense of security, reflecting a peaceful environment among the island's idyllic surroundings.

Public safety feelings are notably positive, particularly during both day and night hours, with very low apprehension about being victimized.

Some notable concerns include:

• Property Crimes - Property crimes, such as theft and break-ins, are perceived as minimal in Koh Samui, leading to low levels of public concern. The community feels secure about their possessions, which contributes to an overall sense of well-being.
• Drug-Related Issues - Drug-related problems are of minor concern in Koh Samui. The community perceives a stable environment with minimal negative impact from drug activities, fostering an atmosphere of tranquility.
• Violent Crimes - Instances of violent crime are virtually negligible, with residents feeling remarkably safe from physical threats like assault and robbery. This contributes to the overall perception of Koh Samui as a serene and safe destination.
• Public Safety - Public safety in Koh Samui is exceptionally high, with residents and tourists alike feeling comfortable and secure, both in daylight and at night. The island's relaxed and friendly vibe reassures its inhabitants.

Crime Trends and Safety

• Rising Crime Concerns - Although the fear of crime increasing is present, it remains a minor concern. The perception of rising crime is low, reassuring residents of Koh Samui's ability to maintain its safe environment.
• Specific Fears - Specific fears such as racial or religious-based victimization are extremely low. The island displays an inclusive and hospitable society, noted for its acceptance and community spirit.

Summary of Crime in Koh Samui

Overall, Koh Samui is perceived as a safe and welcoming environment, with minimal challenges in terms of crime. The high safety index reflects the island's effective community policing and the strong sense of social cohesion among its residents.

Crime Rankings

The crime ranking by city for Thailand is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.

1. Pattaya

Thailand

2. Bangkok

Thailand

3. Chiang Mai

Thailand

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Despite being a popular tourist destination, Koh Samui faces challenges with pollution, primarily due to waste management issues. The scenic beauty of the island is occasionally compromised by environmental concerns.

Air quality is affected moderately, influenced by local factors such as vehicle emissions and residential waste burning, though not to a severe extent.

• PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) - Levels of PM2.5 in Koh Samui are negligible, suggesting that air quality impacts from fine particulate matter are minimal, easing concerns for sensitive groups.
• PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) - Similarly, PM10 levels effectually cause minimal concern, evidencing that particulate matter is not a dominant issue in the region's air quality context.

Waste and Noise Pollution

Waste disposal is a significant issue in Koh Samui, drawing dissatisfaction among residents regarding efficiencies in handling and processing refuse, impacting the island's pristine image.

Noise pollution is relatively less of an issue but is still present, particularly in more developed tourist areas, affecting overall tranquility.

• Garbage Disposal Satisfaction - There is considerable dissatisfaction with garbage disposal services, with residents feeling it requires urgent improvements to cope with increased demand from tourism and local growth.
• Noise and Light Pollution - Noise and light pollution, driven by nightlife and urban activity, affects certain areas but remains less pervasive than in larger urban centers.

Green Spaces and Water Quality

Koh Samui's natural landscapes continue to be a highlight, but the quality and accessibility of green spaces could benefit from further enhancement to maximize environmental and recreational potential.

Water quality, particularly for drinking, is satisfactory, maintaining safe standards and providing reassurance to both locals and tourists.

• Green and Parks Quality - Quality of parks and green spaces in Koh Samui is neutral, with potential for further development to enhance recreational and environmental benefits.
• Drinking Water Quality - Drinking water quality meets acceptable standards, reassuring residents and visitors of its safety and reliability.

Pollution Rankings

The pollution ranking for Thailand is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.

1. Pattaya

Thailand

2. Bangkok

Thailand

3. Chiang Mai

Thailand