Thailand Honored for Sustainable Tourism
Thailand is making waves in sustainable tourism! Ko Lanta, Chiang Khan, and Uthai Thani were honored at ITB Berlin 2026 for community-based, eco-friendly tourism [https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/ko-lanta-chiang-khan-and-uthai-thani-put-thailands-sustainable-tourism-in-the-global-spotlight-at-itb-berlin-2026/]. These destinations are creating new attractions for environmentally conscious travelers.
The Green Destinations Story Awards at ITB Berlin 2026 recognized Thailand's commitment to sustainable tourism practices. Mu Ko Lanta National Park won in the Nature & Scenery category for its "A Hero's Tale from Lanta Island's Regenerative Coast: The Hermit Crab" project, which turns coastal conservation into an immersive visitor experience. This initiative addresses the declining hermit crab population by providing natural shells and combating marine debris. Chiang Khan in Loei province received an award in the Environment & Climate category for its adaptation to ecological changes in the Mekong River. The "When the Mekong Changed: A Fishing Village's Journey Towards Sustainable Tourism" story highlights how the community embraced low-impact tourism, including guided river walks and cultural experiences. This transition has created new income streams while preserving local traditions. Uthai Thani Old Town secured second place in the Environment & Climate category for "The Giant Gourami as GI Tourism: A Living Symbol of Climate Resilience, Connecting Water Stewardship with the Cultural Legacy of Uthai Thani Old Town". This initiative showcases how a native fish can symbolize climate resilience and water stewardship. The town saw a 103.9% rise in visitors after receiving the Top 100 Green Destinations Award in 2024.
