Thailand’s tusker turnaround: TAT teams up with WWF for elephant-friendly travels

In a bid to promote responsible tourism and protect Thai elephants, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) continues to pledge unwavering support to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Thailand and its Travel Ivory Free initiative.

This collaborative effort aims to combat the illegal ivory market by encouraging travellers to refrain from purchasing ivory items during their visits.

Recently, WWF Thailand unveiled a compelling campaign showcasing ongoing endeavours to shift tourist purchasing habits and eradicate the illicit ivory trade. The event drew a significant turnout of travel industry stakeholders and international organisations, united in their mission to raise awareness and champion sustainable tourism practices.

Since its inception in 2018, TAT has steadfastly championed the Travel Ivory Free campaign. Moreover, the launch of the Elephant Care Tourism project in 2020 further solidifies TAT’s dedication to these vital causes, aligning with efforts to safeguard Thai elephants while fostering responsible tourism, reported Pattaya Mail.

Travellers are encouraged to participate in the Travel Ivory Free programme at key tourist hubs across Thailand, including international airports and shopping centres. By doing so, they not only contribute to raising awareness but also get a firsthand experience of sustainable tourism practices in Thailand.

In related news, the lifeless body of an elephant was discovered in the waters in Huai Sat Yai, Hua Hin. The dead elephant is believed to have succumbed to brutal injuries inflicted during a fierce clash.

Deputy Inspector Police Lieutenant Colonel Somphot Prayangam, stationed at Nong Plub Police Station in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan, received a distress call from 51 year old palm plantation owner Sarawut Luangprabang on Sunday, February 18. Sarawut stumbled upon the carcass near his plantation in Ban Fa Prathan, Pa La-U, prompting an urgent response from law enforcement.

In other news, in a heart-wrenching tale of suffering and salvation, a baby elephant named Tofu, just eight months old, has been plucked from a life of torment in Laos and given a fresh start. Chained and mistreated, his plight symbolises the ongoing battle against exploitation in the tourism industry across Asia.