Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Strengthens Commitment to Sustainable and Responsible Tourism
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has reinforced its focus on sustainable and responsible tourism, emphasizing the integration of environmental, cultural, and social considerations across the country’s tourism sector. TAT is advancing these objectives through its 17 Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs) and the Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR), collaborating with local partners, global organisations, and communities to ensure tourism generates long-term benefits for people, the environment, and the economy.
Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “Sustainability is not an option but a pledge. Through our very own Sustainable Tourism Goals and STAR initiative, we are equipping our industry with clear standards while empowering communities and entrepreneurs to adopt responsible practices. Our role at TAT is to connect these efforts to the global stage, so travellers see Thailand not just as a beautiful destination, but as a country where tourism actively preserves culture, protects nature, and uplifts people.”
Introduced in 2023, the STGs are adapted from the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and cover four areas: governance, socio-economic impact, cultural preservation, and environmental responsibility. They inform policies on income distribution, environmental conservation, clean energy, and community wellbeing. The STAR program evaluates tourism operators nationwide, awarding three to five stars based on their sustainability performance. As of August 2025, more than 2,300 businesses have participated in STAR.
Complementary initiatives, including the Thailand Tourism Awards, CF–Hotels certifications, and the Trusted Thailand Stamp, encourage operators to adopt clean energy, reduce carbon footprints, and maintain high standards of safety, accessibility, and service. The New Thailand Vision 2026 further guides the sector toward value-driven growth and quality tourism experiences, aligned with the STGs 2030 roadmap and supported by 20 public and private sector partners.
International collaboration remains a key focus. Initiatives such as the Meaningful Thailand programme, in partnership with Tourism Cares, have highlighted 45 sustainable Thai tourism products and services on the global Meaningful Travel Map, while fostering engagement with international operators and networks. These efforts aim to align local innovations with global best practices, positioning Thailand as a leading example of responsible tourism in Asia and globally.
Thapanee further said, “Our partnerships with international networks strengthen confidence in Thailand as a preferred destination for meaningful travel. They demonstrate not only our readiness but also our determination to inspire the industry to adopt sustainability as a shared responsibility.”
Leave a comment