Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports has initiated the Thailand Green Tourism Plan 2030, a key step towards fostering sustainable tourism in the nation. This plan includes the establishment of the Thailand Good Travel mark, aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of Thai tourism and ensuring the country is recognized among the world’s top 100 sustainable destinations.

Permanent Secretary Natreeya Taweewong stated: “Thai tourism stands at a turning point. We must address the challenges of climate change and new global rules on environmental protection while meeting the expectations of today’s travelers. The Thailand Green Tourism Plan 2030 underscores our determination to be acknowledged as a world-class sustainable destination. By aligning our destinations and operators with international standards, we will create a tourism industry that grows responsibly while preserving cultural and social values for generations to come.”

The initiative, guided by the theme ‘Igniting the Path to Global Green Success’, involves collaboration with key partners including the Department of Tourism, Mahidol University International College as the Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Centre, the Green Destinations Foundation, and Travelife for Tour Operators. The alliance also encompasses 49 partners across government, academia, and the private sector working together to adopt sustainable practices.

The Thailand Good Travel mark serves as a national symbol delivering assurance regarding sustainable tourism practices. It applies to various entities including destinations, community tourism enterprises, small-scale accommodations, and tour operators, promoting balanced practices across environmental, social, cultural, and economic aspects.

To ensure that the Thailand Green Tourism Plan 2030 realizes significant outcomes, the Department of Tourism is enhancing industry capacity through several initiatives such as the Thailand Green Coach program. These sessions aim to equip tourism businesses with the skills necessary to comply with international standards.

Director-General Jaturon Phakdeewanit emphasized: “Preparing our destinations and businesses to meet international sustainability standards is essential to building global confidence in Thai tourism. With the Thailand Green Coach program and regional workshops, we are equipping operators with the knowledge and tools they require to qualify for the Thailand Good Travel mark and compete internationally.”