Environment Ministry promoting low-carbon, eco-friendly tourism

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2023

As a key contributor to the Thai economy, the tourism industry requires a development approach that promotes sustainability, while raising public awareness of environmental impacts, said Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Varawut Silpa-archa.

Varawut was speaking at a luncheon organised by tourism nonprofit SKAL International Bangkok under the theme “The Environment and Thailand’s Tourism”. It was held on February 8 at the Chatrium Residence Sathon Bangkok.

Environment Ministry promoting low-carbon, eco-friendly tourism

“Thailand is full of natural attractions and interesting activities that can be developed using the BCG economy model,” he said, referring to the Bio-Circular-Green model.

“The model essentially focuses on promoting economic gains while ensuring sustainable management of natural resources and environment,” he said.

Environment Ministry promoting low-carbon, eco-friendly tourism

Varawut pointed out that Thailand has several attractions that have been classified as world heritage sites, which could help attract eco-tourists from around the world.

“The Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex in the western region was Thailand’s sixth and latest site named as a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2021, while Satun Geopark was the first site in Thailand that was named as a Unesco Global Geopark in 2018,” he said.

“The government is planning to propose the Andaman Islands and Korat Geopark to be considered as a Unesco World Heritage site and geopark in the future,” Varawut added.

Environment Ministry promoting low-carbon, eco-friendly tourism

His ministry has implemented several measures to promote eco-friendly practices at natural attractions, he said. These include using e-tickets and online reservations via the QueQ application to reduce crowding and waste, implementing a universal design for facilities within national parks, and granting green awards for national parks and hotels that demonstrate outstanding environmental-protection efforts.

“The ministry also promotes low-carbon tourism by banning plastic and foam packaging in national parks and prohibiting smoking at beaches,” Varawut said.