Thailand’s tourism industry urged to embrace global sustainability standards

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in partnership with leading international sustainable tourism organisations, yesterday, September 26 hosted a high-impact seminar titled Action Alert! Accelerating Towards Sustainable Tourism in Thailand at the Avani+ Riverside Hotel, Bangkok.

The event was organised to help Thai tourism businesses prepare for the impending environmental regulations set by the European Union, which are expected to come into effect within the next two years. More than 1,000 tourism operators attended.

Teerasil Tapen, the Deputy Governor for Digitalisation, Research and Development, underscored the importance of sustainability as a prerequisite for global business partnerships.

He highlighted that under the new EU regulations, the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) companies will need credible sustainability management systems to maintain business ties with EU and US partners.

“These regulations will demand that Thai operators comply with strict sustainability standards by 2026 to be ready to report by 2027. Those who fail to meet these standards will be at a disadvantage in accessing key markets with high purchasing power.”

Teerasil further noted that eco-conscious travellers will increasingly demand sustainable practices, further intensifying the need for compliance.

“Sustainability is essential for market access.”

Sustainability is non-negotiable

In her keynote address on Sustainable Tourism Worldwide and Regulatory Changes: The Survival of the Thai Tourism Industry, Assistant Professor Jutamas Wisansing, founder of Roaming Elephants, stressed that adaptation to sustainability is non-negotiable for the future of the Thai tourism industry.

“Sustainability is not an option, but a necessity… Global regulations are evolving quickly. Adopting sustainability standards presents a critical opportunity for businesses to enhance their value and attract environmentally conscious travellers. Collaboration between businesses and regulators is key to ensuring a smooth transition.”

The panel discussion, on Certification Process and Criteria: How to Achieve It?, featured leading experts who discussed the pathways to certification and market entry for sustainable tourism businesses.

Peter Richards, from the SWITCH-ASIA TOUR LINK Project, explained the step-by-step certification process, detailing the different formats and criteria for achieving sustainable tourism certification. He urged businesses to approach certification systematically to maximise global market opportunities.

Pinpinat Chaiyadej, representative of Earth Check, emphasised the role of data transparency in building credibility. She noted that sustainability data management is crucial in demonstrating a company’s commitment to environmental responsibility, stating that data-driven transparency is essential for credibility.

“Today’s travellers demand transparency from tourism operators. To meet this demand, organizations must adopt a data-driven approach to track, report, and continuously develop their sustainability efforts.

“Sustainability requires respecting local ecosystems and communities.”

Assistant Professor Doctor Kaewta Muangkesom, representing Green Destinations, highlighted the importance of understanding and respecting local environments, communities, biodiversity, and cultural diversity. She advocated for the integration of sustainability principles into business operations to create positive impacts on both the environment and society.

“Sustainability certification offers a marketing advantage.”

Anupong Kriangkrailipikorn, Managing Director of Search Engine Optimisation Co., Ltd., and founder of Gother.com, noted that sustainability certification is becoming a key marketing advantage. He emphasised that modern travellers see sustainable tourism as a way to contribute to a better future.

“Sustainable practices are no longer just a competitive edge, but an essential feature for operators seeking to attract the next generation of travellers.”

The Action Alert! seminar marked a crucial turning point for Thailand’s tourism industry. Sustainable tourism is no longer a voluntary choice but an urgent necessity.

Thai tourism operators must align with international sustainability standards to remain competitive and foster a new ecosystem defined by Sustainable Certified Operators, ensuring long-term success in the global market.

Press release