When there's money involved
Play
Good to know there are so many experts here in Thailand from the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry, Environmental Health Association, Interior Ministry, Energy Ministry, Tourism Authority and many more.
Hopefully all, including the Rayong governor, Rayong Tourist Association chairman and Koh Samet Local Administrative Organisation chairman, have visited Koh Samet via the main ferry pier.
“Welcome to Koh Samet” is the big sign there, and it feels like going to another country, having to pay an entrance fee. But left and right, everywhere there is garbage in the sea and on land. Even though some of the resorts are clean and nice, just behind them are piles of garbage.
The oil spill is an accident that invites a cleanup, but hoteliers and resort operators never notice all the garbage on Samet, which tourists see every day.
I am amazed at how fast an evaluation and estimated cost of lost tourism business can be done here in Thailand. The tourism industry and officials need to wake up before it is too late, and not just blame others after an accident occurs.
With environmental regards,
Linus
Bangkok
