Thailand is launching an innovative lowcarbon travel campaign, spearheaded by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The new sustainable tourism push introduces eleven ecofriendly routes across the country, from the mistshrouded hills of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai to the coastal mangroves of Krabi and Phuket. Designed with responsible travellers in mind, these routes follow a greener path, featuring cycling, walking, kayaking and EV use, while also showcasing local heritage and natural beauty.
Destinations on the programme include gentle cycling tours around the ancient city walls of Chiang Saen, serene kayak adventures through Takua Pa’s “Little Amazon” mangroves, and carbonneutral walking trails in Phuket Old Town. In northern Thailand, visitors can join the “Amazing Organic Trip” around Chiang Mai, which involves visiting organic farms and enjoying lowcarbon meals sourced from local operators. Meanwhile, communities in Phuket’s Ban Bang Rong area are engaging travellers through beachside conservation and sustainable tourism activities.
Beyond environmentally responsible routes, the scheme also promotes greener transport, with Thailand targeting 30% EV adoption by 2030, supported by nationwide charging infrastructure. Rail travel is also being enhanced, enabling lowcarbon journeys between heritage sites in the north. Phuket’s old town, for example, is working towards achieving carbon-neutral status by 2030.
The STAR (Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating) system has been introduced to certify green hotels and tourism services, offering visitors clear guidance on supporting sustainable businesses. This 3-to-5 star certification system benchmarks businesses, including hotels and attractions, against 17 Sustainable Tourism Goals, which enables travellers to choose eco-certified options and encourages widespread industry adoption.
Ultimately, TAT believes that lower-carbon travel benefits both the environment and the overall travel experience. Visitors can forge deeper connections with communities, soak in Thailand’s natural and cultural landscapes, and leave a positive legacy in the places they visit. Ultimately, this will help to future-proof Thailand’s diverse destinations and ensure they continue to thrive for generations to come.
Thailand is taking significant strides toward a greener tourism future through a multi-pronged, sustainability-focused agenda. At the Thailand Tourism Forum 2025, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, alongside UN Tourism and over 500 stakeholders, introduced the country’s “Thailand Model” – a five-point strategy promoting eco-conscious travel, tech innovation, community welfare and resilience.
