Thailand is becoming increasingly popular with travellers seeking eco-tourism experiences.
As the world attempts to get a grip on the effects of climate change, consumers are becoming more aware of how their decisions impact the environment and societies.
In line with this shift in consciousness, eco-tourism or ‘green travel’ has risen in popularity, with travellers actively seeking destinations and experiences that have a reduced carbon footprint.
South Africans are also taking this into account, with young generations leading the charge.
RAISED ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS
According to recent research conducted by the M&C Saatchi Group South Africa, as much as 63% of South African millennials consider themselves environmentalists.
However, even under tough economic conditions over half of millennials prefer to support brands and businesses that are socially and environmentally responsible.
CONSCIOUS CONSUMERISM TREND
These findings are in line with the global trend towards ‘conscious consumerism,’ whose effects are spilling over into sectors like international travel.
According to Sustainability in the Sky, sustainable travel is currently one of the fastest-growing sectors of the tourism industry.
World Metrics found that with its annual growth rate of between 20 to 34%, the global eco-tourism market is set to reach over $330 billion by 2027.
RISE OF GREEN DESTINATIONS
Many ‘green’ destinations provide much-needed employment opportunities for local community members.
They also support the development of local economies by working with local suppliers, small-scale producers and artisans.
Some eco-tourism organisations also donate a portion of their earnings to community development and upliftment projects. This also helps to protect the region’s natural resources.
That said, World Metrics estimates that eco-tourism can generate three times more revenue for local communities compared with traditional tourism.
Currently, sustainable travel supports the conservation of around 20 million hectares of protected land and regions across the planet.
THAILAND: AN ECO-TOURISM DESTINATION
With mass tourism having detrimental effects on tourist attractions, many countries are beginning to take action.
Thailand is fast-tracking its sustainable tourism efforts to become an eco-tourist destination.
From local cultural immersion experiences to closing off islands impacted by tourist activity, Thailand is indeed making clear its intentions.
RECOGNISING THAILAND’S ECO-TOURISM EFFORTS
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Director, Chaiwat Tamthai, said the country is committed to eco-tourism.
“We’re proud to say that our efforts towards making Thailand one of the world’s most popular eco-tourism destinations have been recognised by a number of awards platforms. One of these is the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories initiative, which celebrates and promotes 100 global locations and businesses that set the benchmark for sustainable travel every year.” Tamthai said.
Last year, four Thai towns – Hua Hin, Mueang Kao Sukhothai, Khlong Thom, and Nan Old City – were featured in the top 100 on this list.
This was due to their showcasing exemplary destination management practices toward a responsible future for tourism.
ECO-TOURISM: A BETTER WAY TO SEE THE WORLD
Thailand is at the top of the travel to-do lists of many green travellers, including South Africans.
Many travellers seek immersive and authentic travel experiences in local villages.
While eco-tourism is often considered environmental preservation, it also involves the all-important component of community support.
Eco-tourism destinations typically operate according to a mandate that prescribes ways in which the destination can conserve its natural habitat.
“Eco-tourism represents a critical movement toward balancing tourism with environmental and social responsibility. By promoting this positive change, we can ensure that future generations can continue to experience the richness of Thailand’s natural and cultural heritage,” says Tamthai.
VISA-FREE ENTRY
As well as eco-tourism experiences, Thailand offers value for money for South African travellers.
In addition to idyllic beaches and islands, delicious cuisine and a range of interesting experiences, the country offers value for money.
Furthermore, South Africans can visit the country for up to 90 days without requiring a visa.
Would you like to visit some of Thailand’s pristine spots?
Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com. Or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and for the latest news.
