April 22, 2026 | 03:49 AM. It has begun! Phuket hosts GSTC 2026, elevating Thailand as a global sustainable tourism destination.

Phuket officially opened the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference 2026 (GSTC 2026) on April 22, bringing together a record 600 sustainable tourism leaders from around the world. The event, held at Royal Phuket City Hotel and Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town from April 21–24, positions Thailand as a leading global destination for sustainable tourism.

Focus on Net Zero, Community Growth, and Sustainable Practices

Organisers stated that GSTC 2026 aims to set new standards for the tourism sector, with a focus on achieving Net Zero, expanding opportunities for local communities, and aligning with international sustainability benchmarks. The conference agenda includes main sessions on April 22–23, networking events, and post-conference tours highlighting sustainable practices in Phuket’s communities, marine resources, and environmental conservation.

Sustainability measures at the event include calculating and offsetting greenhouse gas emissions in partnership with TCEB and BIC Event, minimising paper and plastic use, and utilising recyclable materials. Each participant will have a tree planted in their name through a collaboration with Reforest, supporting ecosystem restoration.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand emphasised the importance of practical, measurable outcomes from the GSTC framework, aiming to turn complex sustainability goals into tangible results for the tourism industry and local communities.

Source: https://www.thansettakij.com/business/tourism/657198