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| Phuket Old Town |
Launched at a ceremony presided over by Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong, representing Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the initiative has garnered widespread support from various stakeholders, including local government officials, the private sector, and the Phuket community. The event, held at the 72nd Anniversary Queen Sirikit Park in the heart of Phuket Old Town, marks the beginning of a new chapter in the island’s efforts to balance tourism growth with environmental preservation.
A Vision for Sustainable Tourism
The "Phuket Old Town Carbon Neutrality 2030" initiative is spearheaded by the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation, chaired by Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, in collaboration with Phuket City Municipality, the Big Data Institute (BDI), and the local Phuket Old Town community. The program is designed to reduce the environmental impact of tourism in the historic district, making it a model of sustainable tourism development for other destinations in Thailand and globally.
Phuket Old Town, known for its vibrant cultural heritage, historic architecture, and bustling streets, faces the challenges of managing a large influx of visitors each year, with a significant environmental footprint. The new initiative aims to transform the old town into a green, carbon-neutral space through innovative approaches to resource management, waste reduction, and community engagement.
Key Components of the Carbon Neutrality Initiative
The “Phuket Old Town Carbon Neutrality 2030” initiative focuses on several key strategies to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. These strategies include:
Waste Segregation and Recycling: One of the core components of the initiative is to improve waste management through an efficient recycling system. The introduction of colour-coded bags for segregating waste will help ensure proper disposal and recycling, reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills and decreasing the town’s overall carbon footprint.
Smart Technology for Carbon Emission Tracking: The Big Data Institute (BDI) has developed an innovative real-time monitoring system to track carbon dioxide emissions, analyzing data on traffic patterns, waste management, and water pollution. This cutting-edge technology aims to help local authorities better understand and manage carbon emissions in the area.
Energy and Resource Efficiency: The initiative will focus on improving the efficiency of energy use and water consumption within the old town. By promoting eco-friendly practices among businesses and residents, Phuket Old Town can reduce its environmental impact while maintaining its appeal as a thriving tourism hub.
Milestones and Targets
The project sets ambitious targets, aiming to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 30% within three years and by 50% by 2030. These goals will be achieved through a combination of technological advancements, community participation, and partnerships with local businesses.
Phuket Governor Sophon Suwanrat emphasized that the success of the initiative depends on implementing clear strategies to tackle the town’s environmental challenges, particularly as international standards for sustainable tourism continue to evolve. The initiative will be monitored and adjusted based on real-time data and ongoing community involvement, ensuring it remains adaptable and impactful.
Boosting Phuket's Appeal as a Global Sustainable Destination
Phuket's commitment to sustainable tourism is not only aimed at reducing its environmental impact but also at reinforcing its position as a top global destination. In addition to the Old Town Carbon Neutrality 2030 initiative, Phuket has been selected to host the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference in 2026, further cementing the island’s reputation as a leader in environmental preservation and sustainable tourism practices.
As the popularity of Phuket’s Old Town continues to rise, with iconic attractions such as the Lard Yai Sunday Walking Street drawing more than 30,000 visitors weekly, the challenge of managing waste and carbon emissions becomes even more pressing. These lively cultural hotspots, which showcase the island’s vibrant local heritage, also present significant challenges in terms of waste management and traffic congestion. However, with the launch of the carbon neutrality initiative, Phuket is setting an example for how tourism and sustainability can go hand in hand.
A Bright Future for Sustainable Tourism in Thailand
The "Phuket Old Town Carbon Neutrality 2030" initiative is an inspiring example of how destinations can embrace sustainability while preserving their cultural and historical assets. As Phuket becomes the first carbon-neutral area in Thailand, it sets a powerful precedent for other tourism hotspots across the nation and the wider region. The project aligns with Thailand’s broader commitment to sustainable development and climate action.
Phuket Mayor Saroj Angkanapilas echoed the importance of preserving the town’s rich cultural heritage while embracing global sustainability trends. "We must preserve the soul of Phuket Old Town, while also moving forward with the evolving standards of sustainable tourism," he remarked.
The "Phuket Old Town Carbon Neutrality 2030" initiative is more than just an environmental effort—it is a commitment to future generations. As the world’s travelers become increasingly conscious of their environmental impact, Phuket is positioning itself as a destination that cares not only for its visitors but also for the planet. By setting ambitious goals and taking actionable steps towards carbon neutrality, Phuket is paving the way for a new era of carbon-free tourism in Thailand and beyond.
With the active participation of the local community, businesses, and tourists themselves, Phuket Old Town is poised to become a shining example of sustainable tourism—a place where both culture and nature can thrive together for years to come.
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