Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment of Thailand, said that the tourism sector needs to be developed in a way that encourages sustainability and increases public awareness of environmental impacts. Varawut was speaking at a luncheon with the theme “The Environment and Thailand’s Tourism” that was hosted by the nonprofit organization SKAL International Bangkok. It took place at the Chatrium Residence Sathon Bangkok on February 8.
Environment Ministry encouraging low-carbon, environmentally beneficial travel
He remarked, referring to the Bio-Circular-Green model, “Thailand is abundant with natural attractions and exciting activities that can be developed using the BCG economy model.”
According to him, the strategy fundamentally focuses on fostering economic advantages while assuring sustainable management of the environment and natural resources.
supporting low-carbon, environmentally friendly travel
Varawut brought up the possibility of luring eco-tourists from all over the world by pointing out that Thailand has a number of attractions that have been designated as world heritage sites.
In 2021, the Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex in western Thailand became Thailand’s sixth and most recent site to be designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site, while Satun Geopark became the country’s first location to be designated as a Unesco Global Geopark in 2018.
In the future, the Andaman Islands and the Korat Geopark would be proposed by the government for consideration as a Unesco World Heritage site and geopark, Varawut continued.
supporting low-carbon, environmentally friendly travel
According to him, his ministry has put in place a number of initiatives to encourage eco-friendly behavior at tourist destinations. These include implementing a common design for amenities in national parks, employing e-tickets and online reservations through the QueQ program to lessen crowding and waste, and giving green awards to hotels and national parks that go above and beyond to safeguard the environment.
By outlawing the use of plastic and foam packaging in national parks and the smoking of tobacco products on beaches, the ministry also encourages low-carbon travel, according to Varawut.
