Thailand is strengthening its efforts to support sustainable tourism. Recognising the importance of sustainability, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is encouraging hotels and stakeholders in the tourist industry to do more.
The drive towards sustainability is being achieved in several ways. While there is still much to be done, Thailand is making big steps in the right direction.
Sustainable tourism goals
Tourism Thailand has introduced the STAR (Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating) concept. The STAR initiative evaluates and recognises tourism-related businesses (including hotels, attractions, and retailers) based on their alignment with Thailand’s 17 Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs). These goals are designed to reflect and support the broader objectives of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Through the STAR program, TAT champions sustainability in tourism, positioning Thailand as a model for responsible travel on the global stage.
Success Story: Elephant Hills
A notable recipient of the highest STAR rating and a serial winner of the Responsible Thailand Awards, Elephant Hills has demonstrated a strong and ongoing commitment to sustainability.
How STAR works
Businesses are assessed on a sustainability scale ranging from three to five stars, with three stars being the baseline requirement and five stars representing the highest standard of sustainability.
Objectives of the STAR program
The STAR initiative aims to:
- Elevate Thailand’s tourism sector by promoting sustainable practices
- Integrate public health and safety measures within the industry
- Enhance visitor experiences through responsible tourism
- Strengthen Thailand’s reputation as a global leader in sustainable tourism.
The STGs focus on key aspects of sustainability, including:
- Reducing economic disparities
- Encouraging sustainable food production
- Promoting health and wellbeing for all
- Providing education on responsible tourism
- Advancing gender equality
- Ensuring access to clean water and sanitation
- Expanding the use of clean, efficient energy
- Supporting local employment and economic growth.
Benefits for Tourism Businesses
Businesses that earn STAR accreditation gain increased visibility, a stronger reputation, and a competitive edge in the sustainable tourism market.
Targets
Underlining the importance attached to the STAR project, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has set an ambitious target for 70% of tourism businesses to be STAR accredited by the end of 2026.
Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA)
The Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA) is a network of eco-conscious tourism professionals. Their members include tour operators, hotels, local community groups, and eco-tourism and adventure activity experts.
TEATA actively promotes sustainable tourism and collaborates with the Tourism Authority of Thailand in addition to other government agencies and the public and private sectors.
TEATA supports local communities in Thailand and has recognised that change takes time. They also recognise that changes to improve sustainability need to come from within. Hotels, tour operators and other tourism stakeholders need to drive that change.
“Instead of changing the behaviour of tourists, we need to change ourselves to protect our home. Thailand is our home.”
Ms. Parichat Suntararak, Vice president of TEATA
Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism (DASTA)
DASTA is a government organisation under the Ministry of Tourism and Sport that also works with Tourism Thailand to improve sustainability.
DATSA knows that putting the community at the heart of projects benefits all. As DASTA develops sustainable tourism in designated areas across Thailand, it aims to empower local communities. The organisation recognises there is a balance between economic, social and environmental aspects, but the local community is key to making positive changes.
Carbon-neutral tourism
The Tourism Authority of Thailand is promoting carbon-neutral tourism across all 77 provinces. The initial focus is on major cities and popular tourist destinations. With support from the Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association, Thai universities, and responsible travel experts, Thailand is positioning itself as a leading hub for sustainable tourism in Asia.
The aim is to reduce tourists’ carbon footprint in a variety of ways. This includes promoting energy-efficient transport, sourcing food locally to destinations, using green accommodation, and reducing waste.
One example of low-carbon tourism is the way Thailand is enhancing its rail tourism network to promote low-carbon travel while connecting travellers to the country’s cultural and natural heritage. These expanded routes provide an eco-friendly alternative to air travel, linking historical sites, vibrant local communities, and scenic landscapes.
North Thailand
The northern rail lines traverse Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phrae, Uttaradit, and Phitsanulok, granting access to ancient towns, cultural villages, and historic landmarks. Travellers can explore centuries-old temples, Lanna architecture, and traditional crafts while immersing themselves in the region’s unique heritage.
Northeast Thailand
There are a couple of different routes in the Isaan region. The first connects Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, and Nong Khai, highlighting the cultural influences along the Mekong River. It offers travellers a chance to experience Isaan’s renowned cuisine, traditional festivals, and historical landmarks.
The second route travels through Surin, Si Sa Ket, and Ubon Ratchathani. This route focuses on local traditions, elephant conservation, and community-based tourism, allowing visitors to engage with rural life and local culture.
Southern Thailand
The ‘Truly South’ route links the Gulf Coast and the Andaman Coast. This picturesque journey offers access to pristine beaches, lush national parks, and vibrant seaside towns while reducing the carbon footprint of travel in the region.
