The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced the launch of the Thailand Green Tourism Collections, a new initiative aimed at promoting sustainable travel and aligning with European Union sustainability standards. The program features 20 travel routes across 10 cities designated as Green Cities, reflecting Thailand’s commitment to international tourism goals and its New Thailand Vision 2026.
The initiative was developed in partnership with EU tour operators and both public and private Thai stakeholders. It is designed to help Thai tourism businesses comply with new EU regulations such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). These directives will require EU companies to work only with suppliers who can show transparent sustainability practices. By meeting these requirements, TAT aims to help local operators remain competitive in the global market.
Mrs. Chiravadee Khunsub, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, said: “We developed the Thailand Green Tourism Collections in direct response to shifts in the EU market. It brings together certified, credible operators across the tourism supply chain — empowering Thai businesses to stay globally competitive and build long-term partnerships with the world’s most forward-looking travel sectors.”
The collections are organized into seven categories: Green Accommodations, Attractions, Activities, Restaurants, Goods, Logistics, and Tour Operators. All participating operators must meet international standards such as those set by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), Green Globe, or Green Destinations. National certifications like Thailand Tourism Awards and TAT’s STGs STAR are also recognized.
Ten cities—Chiang Mai, Nan, Sukhothai, Loei, Nakhon Ratchasima, Bangkok, Trat, Krabi, Phang-Nga, and Surat Thani—were selected for their potential to offer low-impact tourism experiences. Input from 26 travel platforms helped identify these destinations based on their ability to provide inclusive tourism options that support cultural heritage and community involvement. The curated routes focus on five main themes: cultural heritage; local cuisine; soft adventure; sustainable luxury; crafts; and immersive community-based travel.
To encourage participation at a local level, TAT introduced the Green Mayor initiative in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Krabi. This program supports municipal engagement through route planning and community branding efforts.
Mr. Natthapong Meepokakij, Director of Chom Thong District in Bangkok and one of the programme’s early champions said: “As Green Mayor, I see this as a real opportunity to improve quality of life in a balanced and sustainable way. Chom Thong’s cultural roots, canal-side lifestyle, and strong community offer the perfect foundation for a tourism model that protects the environment, celebrates heritage, and brings income back to local people.”
At an official launch event held at Phumjai Garden in Bangkok guests experienced one of these routes firsthand by traveling along Bang Khun Thian canal by electric boat before visiting several local attractions including an orchard over 100 years old.
To raise awareness internationally about this initiative there will be online presentations for overseas partners along with product showcases targeted at agents media influencers bloggers nano-creators social media platforms primarily focusing on audiences within Europe United States according trade alliances established by TAT.
The Thailand Green Tourism Collections will make its debut before global buyers during WTM London 2025—a significant step towards positioning Thailand as a leader in sustainable tourism.
Mrs. Chiravadee concluded: “Green tourism is not just a concept — it’s a national commitment. Through cross-sector collaboration we’re not only making sustainability a reality but we’re also making it scalable Our goal is clear: to lead the world as a top-tier sustainable tourism destination.”
More information about all 20 routes can be found at https://tourismproduct.tourismthailand.org/.