Global Sustainable Tourism summit opens in Phuket
The conference was officially opened last night (Apr 21) by Tourism and Sports Minister Sorasak Panjaroenvorakul, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to placing sustainability at the centre of national tourism…
The Global Sustainable Tourism summit opened last night in Phuket, launched by Tourism and Sports Minister Sorasak Panjaroenvorakul, who underscored the government’s focus on sustainability as central to tourism policy. The event, continuing through April 24, convenes over 600 international participants to address sustainable hospitality, resilient cities, and visitor capacity management.
Government Priorities and National Strategy
Minister Sorasak outlined a shift toward “value-based” tourism, emphasizing environmental protection, cultural preservation, and community benefit over sheer visitor numbers. Thailand is advancing low-carbon tourism, encouraging travel to secondary cities, and supporting local communities to promote more equitable income distribution.
Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Thapanee Kiatpaiboon said the summit aligns with Thailand’s ambition to lead in sustainable tourism and supports the sector’s net-zero goals. She described the event as a platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and international cooperation.
Phuket’s Role and Conference Activities
Phuket was chosen to demonstrate its infrastructure, tourism management, and sustainability credentials, with officials citing its capacity to host multiple international events as evidence of its MICE hub status. Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn welcomed delegates, highlighting ongoing marine resource restoration and environmental management efforts.
The summit programme features academic forums, workshops, and networking sessions on climate change adaptation, post-disaster recovery, hotel waste management, and improving accessibility. Friday’s field trips will allow attendees to observe sustainable practices in local communities and marine environments.
A welcome dinner at Blue Elephant restaurant showcased Phuket’s cuisine and cultural identity. Organisers implemented sustainability measures for the event, including carbon reduction initiatives and a tree-planting programme. The Global Sustainable Tourism Council noted Phuket’s selection reflects its prominence as a major tourism destination and its reliance on the sector as an economic driver.
Source: https://www.thephuketnews.com/global-sustainable-tourism-summit-opens-in-phuket-99989.php
