Thailand Unites for a Greener Tomorrow: Driving Sustainable Tourism Goals Towards 2030

A Landmark Agreement for Sustainable Tourism

In a powerful show of collaboration, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has joined hands with 20 public and private sector partners to sign a groundbreaking Letter of Intent focused on accelerating progress toward Thailand’s Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs) by 2030. This national commitment represents a pivotal moment in the country’s ambition to reshape its tourism industry with sustainability and shared responsibility at its core, aligned with TAT’s Strategic Direction 2026.

Minister of Tourism and Sports, Mr. Sorawong Thienthong, emphasised the significance of this unity: “This is more than ceremony—it is a strong declaration of intent. I commend TAT and all partners for uniting with a purpose. This is a defining step toward a more responsible, inclusive, and future-ready Thai tourism industry.”

Aligning with Global Sustainable Development Goals

The Letter of Intent translates the global United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into concrete targets tailored for Thailand’s tourism sector. It fosters a balanced approach that promotes economic growth, social equity, environmental protection, and sound governance. Through this alliance, Thailand is positioned to lead by example in sustainable tourism practices across the Asia-Pacific region.

The coalition includes eight government agencies such as the Department of Tourism, Sports Authority of Thailand, Department of Climate Change and Environment, and the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization. Additionally, 13 private sector and civil society organisations have pledged support, including the Thai Hotels Association, Tourism Council of Thailand, Central Group, Minor International, and Dusit Thani.

Concrete Steps Towards a Sustainable Future

Minister of Tourism and Sports, Mr. Sorawong Thienthong

Each partner organisation has committed to strategic initiatives that support the STGs. The Tourism Authority of Thailand will champion sustainability certification efforts, utilising platforms such as STGs STAR and the Carbon Footprint Hotels Platform, while the Department of Tourism leads the Thailand Green Plan 2030 and promotes the Thailand Good Travel Seal. Meanwhile, the Department of Climate Change and Environment is working to elevate Phuket hotels to Green Hotel Plus status.

Together, these actions focus on reducing emissions, protecting biodiversity, enhancing resource efficiency, and improving governance standards—all while ensuring equity and active local participation. The collaboration aims to create a replicable national model for inclusive and sustainable tourism development.

A Vision for Stewardship and Resilience

TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool highlighted the importance of this initiative: “This is a decisive step toward reshaping tourism in Thailand. We are setting a course that prioritises stewardship of our natural resources, genuine community benefit, and long-term resilience. Our mission is to embed sustainability as the foundation of how Thai tourism operates and grows.”

Although non-binding, the Letter of Intent marks a clear and shared direction, with progress monitored collectively. The agreement is valid for one year from signing and may be extended with mutual consent, underscoring a long-term commitment to sustainability.

For more information, visit: Tourism Authority of Thailand: www.tourismthailand.org

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine"
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/