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Bangkok Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Bangkok Post
Phuket hotels go green in hunt for gold
Thai tourism is embracing sustainability as a core selling point for travellers, as the industry seeks to ensure its survival in a marketplace where such practices have become the "new normal". As more visitors opt for hotels and tourism operators equipped with sustainable standards, the key to success is seen as deriving from fact-based practices, governing policies and, more importantly, partnerships between operators and financial institutions which support business transformation. Phuket has become a role model where hoteliers are working closely with Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) to define a new chapter of sustainable tourism on the island. SUSTAINABLE FINANCE "At present, the tourism sector is the main engine that keeps the Thai economy hopeful," said SCB chief executive Kris Chantanotoke. Last year, the tourism sector generated over 2.6 trillion baht, roughly 14% of GDP. Phuket is among the country's leading tourism destinations, welcoming over 2.4 million foreign tourists during the first five months of this year, representing an 8% increase year-on-year, against a contraction nationwide. Scheduled to host the Global Sustainable Tourism Council 2026 conference next year, SCB has labelled Phuket as a pilot sustainable destination. This aligns with the government's plans to issue a new climate change bill, and the goal of the Department of Climate Change and Environment and its stakeholders that are aiming to certify 600 hotels in Phuket as Green Hotel Plus by next year. "No matter what happens, SCB will never leave Phuket," said Mr Kris, adding that SCB issues the most loans in the province. In the hospitality and service sectors, SCB holds the largest loan portfolio of 135 billion baht among all Thai banks. In Phuket, SCB's hotel loan portfolio is worth roughly 20 billion baht. Mr Kris said the bank helps clients tailor their sustainable strategies based on their needs, in order to "get the first button right." For instance, for clients who are starting to adopt sustainable practice, it could offer different consultations and products to help them become "less brown", or more environmentally friendly businesses, compared to operators who have been doing it for 10 years. Some may demand funds to improve their service to become more environmentally friendly, such as solar panel investment. "SCB is committed to supporting operators via loans with special interest rates," said Mr Kris. The bank offers financial products linked to clear and measurable targets, including sustainability-linked loans, green loans, and green bonds. These solutions support hoteliers' efforts to secure green building certifications, such as LEED, EDGE, WELL and TREES, as well as operational certifications, including Green Hotel Plus, EarthCheck, and Green Globe. Nationwide, SCB has issued sustainable loans and bonds totalling 180 billion baht since 2023, of which 80 billion baht went to the hospitality sector. Mr Kris said the growth was faster than the target of 150-billion-baht during its three-year plan between 2023-2025. BEYOND HOSPITALITY SCB's long-standing partners, Kata Group Resorts and Jee Teng Hospitality – leading hoteliers in Phuket – succeeded in implementing sustainable standards across their operations. "Sustainability is not a choice, but a matter of survival for tourism businesses," said Pramookpisitt Achariyachai, chairman of Kata Group Resorts Thailand and Beyond Hotels & Resorts. Kata Group operates nine hotels in four provinces in the South -- Phuket, Phangnga, Krabi, and Koh Samui, with over 2,200 rooms. Operating under the philosophy of "Beyond a good place is a better planet," the group achieved 57 sustainable-related awards, including the prestigious Travelife Gold across its six hotels. Mr Pramookpisitt said tourists are prioritising a sustainable vacation, particularly the European market, as witnessed from the past decade. He said travel agents are also selective as they only look for accommodation with certification and standards. Beyond Kata was the group's first property on the Kata beachfront with 275 rooms, and has been open for over 35 years. Upon arrival, guests can immediately notice the resort's open-air lobby and atrium design with a high ceiling, enabling the space to keep cool through natural ventilation. This allows the hotel to save electricity costs of over 145,000 baht per month, or 60 million baht over 30 years, he said. The resort adopts energy and water reduction, using solar panels, 100% LED lighting, auto-sensor balcony doors, and automation timer systems, as well as recycling water for gardens. Its waste management mechanisms include using in-house recycling stations, food composter machines, and reducing single-use plastics. Fruit waste is used to make bathroom amenities such as shampoo and lotion, while surplus food from buffet lines is given away to those in need via the Scholars of Sustenance foundation. The resort also highlighted sustainability across its procurement system, including employing local residents as 20% of staff. It also hires local contractors and sources products from local suppliers. To build community engagement, the hotel regularly hosts activities, such as beach cleaning, vegetarian festivals, and 60-minute lighting switch-off, fostering a collaborative relationship. According to Sajal Gaur, sustainability director at Kata Group, these energy, water and waste management solutions help the Beyond Kata hotel save over 1.1 million baht per month, compared to an average 600,000-baht monthly spend on facilities and staff training. DRIVEN BY GLOBAL CHAINS The 600-room Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort was opened during the pandemic. Owned by Jee Teng Hospitality, executive director Saharat Jivavisitnont leads the management with a passion for sustainable tourism. This property has been awarded three leaves, accredited by the Green Leaf Foundation. Last year, its occupancy rate was over 90%, with a gross operating profit margin of more than 50%. Mr Saharat said its successful performance has proven that practising sustainability can go hand-in-hand with ensuring elegant and high-quality services for guests. The hotel buys locally produced ingredients in Phuket, such as goat meat, seafood and cage-free eggs, helping to enrich the local economy, as well as growing its own vegetables in its garden. Its leftover food is distributed to the local communities, while surplus pineapple and fishbones are made into the hotel's signature "Pinefin Bliss" drink. The hotel provides regular sustainability training to its staff throughout the year, in order to ensure they realise how their work is meaningful and benefits the society, environment, and themselves. Under a management contract with Marriott, the global chain also provides hotel owners with the Marriott Environmental Sustainability Hub, a platform that helps plan their operations. During the first half of this year, the property reduced carbon emissions by 6.72% year-on-year, and reduced energy consumption by 6.82% year-on-year, saving over 2.1 million baht. Mr Saharat said a branded property allows easier implementation of sustainability under the brand's standard operating procedure, which is the same standard in Marriott properties worldwide, compared to independent hotels. Jee Teng is currently developing another hotel, the 600-room Sheraton Phuket Nai Harn Beach Resort & Spa, slated for 2028, under a 5-billion-baht investment. "This property has got the EDGE certification, meaning the sustainability aspects have been embedded since the design and construction process, such as building material selection," said Mr Saharat. A premium hotel with EDGE certification could cost more than 15-20% higher in investment, compared to uncertified hotels with the same service class, he said. This new hotel has been selected as a pilot project under the SCB sustainability programme. IMPROVING PHUKET As a vice-president of the Thai Hotels Association's southern chapter, Mr Saharat said that the association also provides training and seminars on sustainable operations to members, as well as small unlicensed hotels in Phuket, since only a few of them have received green certification. "More tourism operators are willing to transform their business to be sustainable," he said. "Sustainability does not necessarily require a huge budget, but can start with appropriate funding. The difference in investment between a hostel and a five-star hotel, or between 200-room and 600-room hotels, can be different due to revenue." Mr Pramookpisitt added that even though the private sector in Phuket is strong in driving tourism and sustainable practices, the province still requires support from the public sector in improving large-scale infrastructure. This includes accelerating road projects, or new waste management and water facilities. "The next chapter for Phuket undeniably requires close collaboration and planning between public and private sectors as there's a national agenda to make the province the regional tourism leader," said Mr Kris. He said the ongoing challenge is that the province's annual budget is still allocated based on permanent residents, but not including tourists and workers. Puhket requires a budget restructuring, aligned with the island's infrastructure, tourism plan, and capacity to prevent over-tourism. Mr Kris said that most green loans today are still concentrated in medium-sized and large operators, with little exposure to small businesses. During the past two years, SCB has consistently invested in education programmes for small and medium-sized operators. The bank communicates to them that these green practices are opportunities to help manage expenses and assist their employees and communities. In the long-run, SCB aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from internal operations by 2030, and net-zero emissions across all of its loan and investment portfolio by 2050. Its parent company, SCBX Group, is recognised as the first and only financial group in Thailand that sets its net-zero target via the Science Based Targets initiative. "In terms of sustainable loans in Thailand, there are still a few banks, including SCB, which are fully invested in this segment. I believe that this agenda will become even more important for all players in the future," Mr Kris concluded. An EV car charger at Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort.
Express Tribune
30-06-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Three ecotourism projects planned
The Punjab Wildlife and Parks Department has initiated an ecotourism development programme at Changa Manga, Uchali Lake and Chashma Wetlands. The initiative, part of an Annual Development Programme (ADP) scheme funded by the provincial government, aims to establish environmentally responsible infrastructure that promotes nature-based tourism, wildlife conservation, and community engagement. According to official documents, the department has invited applications for pre-qualification from eligible contractors to undertake the development work. Firms licensed with the Pakistan Engineering Council and holding specific technical certifications are eligible to apply. Foreign companies may participate only in joint ventures with Pakistani firms. A mandatory requirement for all bidders is the engagement of an International ecotourism development specialist, who must remain involved throughout the project. Applicants are also required to demonstrate significant technical and financial credentials, including prior experience in large-scale infrastructure development, thematic recreational facilities such as safari parks or zoological gardens, and electrification works. The firms must show an average annual turnover of Rs4.5 billion over the last three years and have access to at least Rs3 billion in working capital or credit facilities. Companies engaged in the supply of wildlife must hold valid certifications from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and the climate change ministry. This initiative designed in line with Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) criteria marks the province's first structured push to blend conservation with tourism. Officials from the forests, wildlife and fisheries department emphasised that the sites had been chosen for their ecological importance.
Daily Express
10-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Sabah Tourism Board hosts GSTC workshop to drive sustainable tourism
Published on: Tuesday, June 10, 2025 Published on: Tue, Jun 10, 2025 Text Size: Q&A session: (From left) Grace, Kingston Khoo and Randy. Kota Kinabalu: The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) High-Level Workshop was held at the Grand Ballroom of Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, here, recently. The full-day workshop brought together 80 key tourism stakeholders – consisting of tourism associations, government departments and agencies and academicians. Advertisement Organised by the Sabah Tourism Board, the workshop featured speakers from GSTC, namely, Randy Durband, CEO of GSTC and Kingston Khoo, a certified GSTC trainer. Both experts led insightful sessions that introduced participants to the GSTC Criteria and provided guidance on sustainable tourism implementation. The workshop was officiated by Datuk Josie Lai, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment, who emphasised Sabah's responsibility as a steward of its natural and cultural treasures. 'Sustainable tourism is not just a goal; it is a necessity to safeguard Sabah's environment and culture for future generations while supporting economic growth and community well-being,' she said. Following her keynote address, Julinus Jeffery Jimit, CEO of Sabah Tourism Board, delivered a briefing on the importance of GSTC in guiding Sabah's sustainable tourism efforts. He mentioned that the objective for implementing the GSTC criteria is to align Sabah's tourism sector with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by integrating these global standards. This approach enhances Sabah's international credibility, fosters sustainable business opportunities, and strengthens its position as a premier ecotourism destination on the world stage. Sabah is already making significant progress, with three key sites – Maliau Basin, Imbak Canyon, and the Borneo Rainforest Lodge in Danum Valley – having achieved GSTC certification, demonstrating local commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism best practices. The workshop provided an in-depth overview of sustainable tourism principles, current global trends, and the pivotal role of the GSTC and its international standards in guiding both public and private sector practices. The morning sessions highlighted successful case studies from abroad, providing helpful information regarding real-world implementation of sustainability in tourism. A highlight of the day was a sharing session by Grace Pounsin from Yayasan Sabah Group, who detailed their successful journey in achieving GSTC certification for the Maliau Basin and Imbak Canyon Conservation Areas – powerful examples of Sabah's leadership in conservation and sustainability. The afternoon sessions focused on local context, emphasising the role of various stakeholders in applying GSTC standards in Sabah. Interactive discussions encouraged participants to explore practical and collaborative approaches to enhancing sustainability across the tourism value chain. In his closing remarks, Julinus Jeffery Jimit, CEO of the Sabah Tourism Board, encouraged all participants to turn knowledge into action. 'We now have a clearer understanding of how sustainable tourism can drive real change for our communities and ecosystems. 'Let us take the GSTC standards and make them part of how we plan, operate, and innovate in Sabah's tourism sector. Together, we can ensure that tourism development benefits both people and the planet.' As Sabah eyes a sustainable future, this workshop marks a critical milestone in embedding sustainability into its tourism strategy. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Korea Herald
30-05-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
Agoda and GSTC Launch Free Digital Training Platform to Empower Hoteliers with Sustainability Skills
SINGAPORE, May 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital travel platform Agoda, in collaboration with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), has launched the Sustainable Tourism Academy, a free digital training platform designed to equip current and aspiring hoteliers with practical sustainability tools and knowledge. The initiative aims to address the growing demand for sustainable accommodation options from increasingly sustainability-conscious travelers while driving transformation within Asia's hotel industry. The Sustainable Tourism Academy offers localized and tailored content to tackle the unique sustainability challenges faced by the region. The platform features interactive learning exercises, case studies, assessments, and discussion boards to create an engaging and comprehensive learning experience. Learning modules focus on how to attract sustainability-minded guests and develop sustainability strategies with insights and case studies from hotels across Asia. Available in English, Vietnamese, Malay, Thai, and Indonesian, the platform ensures accessibility for a broad audience of hospitality professionals across Southeast Asia. The self-paced platform allows participants to complete training modules at their convenience, making it ideal for busy hospitality professionals. Upon successful completion, participants receive a completion certificate jointly issued by GSTC and Agoda, formally recognizing their enhanced sustainability knowledge and skills. Damien Pfirsch, Chief Commercial Officer at Agoda, shared, "Through the Sustainable Tourism Academy, Agoda and GSTC are equipping hoteliers to drive meaningful change within the industry. Agoda is committed to scaling up this initiative, and by offering this platform free of charge, we're making sustainability education accessible, practical, and impactful for everyone in the Asian hospitality sector, from kitchen staff to general managers." Randy Durband, Chief Executive Officer at Global Sustainable Tourism Council, added, "By providing free access to practical, localized sustainability training, GSTC and Agoda are empowering hoteliers to take meaningful steps toward a more sustainable future. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to making sustainability not just an aspiration, but a standard practice across the region." The training content is built around the GSTC Standard, the global standard for sustainability in travel and tourism. It covers key areas such as sustainable management, socioeconomic impacts, cultural impacts, and environmental impacts. Developed by Agoda's Sustainability Team and GSTC and its trainers, including CB Ramkumar (Vice Chair, GSTC), Mochamad Nalendra (CEO, Wise Steps Consulting), and Catherine Germier-Hamel (CEO, Destination Mekong), the content combines diverse expertise and real-world insights from leaders in the field. The platform was officially launched on Friday, 30 May, at an event in Bangkok, Thailand, which brought together over a hundred Southeast Asian hospitality professionals for in-depth conversations on emerging trends and challenges in sustainable tourism. The Sustainable Tourism Academy is free of charge and accessible to everyone, underscoring Agoda and GSTC's commitment to fostering a more sustainable future for all in travel. To explore the platform, visit
NDTV
22-04-2025
- NDTV
World Earth Day 2025: 12 Destinations Leading The Way In Responsible Travel
The travel world has officially hit its climate-aware era. Forget vague green promises — today's best destinations are backing sustainability with real policies, local partnerships, and planet-friendly experiences. From carbon-negative countries to electric-powered fjords, these places aren't just looking good on Instagram — they're doing good, too. From eco-friendly fjord cruises in Norway to Indigenous community-led treks in Greenland, coral restoration in Fiji to forest-preserving policies in Bhutan, these 12 responsible travel destinations are proving that travel and responsibility don't have to be at odds. Here's where to go in 2025 if you want your holiday to have impact, not just aesthetics — but meaning, too. Here Are 12 Sustainable Destinations Driving Responsible Travel In 2025: 1. Northern Costa Rica Costa Rica has long been the poster child for ecotourism, but its northern region — home to Rincon de la Vieja and Tenorio Volcano National Parks — is setting a new standard. Visitors can hike to turquoise waterfalls like Rio Celeste, spot tapirs and toucans on community-run safaris, and stay at ecolodges like Origins Lodge that use hydroelectric power and organic farming. The country runs on 99% renewable energy and has pledged to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, making your jungle getaway here as low-impact as it gets. 2. The Azores, Portugal This remote Portuguese archipelago has been lauded by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council for its integrated approach to conservation. Sao Miguel's geothermal-fed hot springs, Terceira's lava caves, and Faial's whale sanctuaries offer natural wonders without the crowds. The Azores get 40% of their electricity from renewables and are aiming for carbon neutrality by 2030. Many accommodations are eco-certified, including the zero-waste-inspired Lava Homes. As of 2023, the regional government also implemented a "carrying capacity" study to limit mass tourism. 3. Rwanda Rwanda. Photo: Pixabay In Rwanda, tourism has become a tool for healing and growth. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park directly funds conservation and allocates 10% of permit fees to local communities. Rwanda Development Board has capped gorilla visitor permits at 96 per day to prevent stress on wildlife. Lodges like Bisate and Singita Kwitonda are built with volcanic rock, powered by solar, and employ locals. The country has banned plastic bags since 2008 and enforces monthly Umuganda (community clean-up days), which even tourists can join. 4. Norway Norway isn't just leading on electric cars — it's electrifying the travel industry. The country will ban fossil fuel-powered cruises in UNESCO-listed fjords from 2026, but lines like Hurtigruten and Havila are already operating hybrid ships. The Lofoten Islands have introduced eco-taxes and limit short-term rentals to preserve local culture. Stay in energy-efficient cabins, hike in protected parks like Rondane, and dine on seasonal menus featuring reindeer, cod, and foraged berries. Bonus: Oslo aims to become the world's first emission-free capital by 2030. 5. Singapore Singapore's Green Plan 2030 includes reforestation, car-lite zones, and a goal to triple cycling paths. Tourism aligns with this vision. Gardens by the Bay uses a sophisticated biomass-powered cooling system, and the new Mandai Wildlife Reserve is built with green-certified materials and eco-bridges for wildlife movement. Stay at PARKROYAL Collection Marina Bay, which is powered by solar and covered in 2,400 plants. You can kayak through mangrove forests in Pulau Ubin or shop plastic-free at the city's growing zero-waste stores. 6. Eastern Greenland Eastern Greenland remains one of the least developed tourism regions in the Arctic, and that's by design. Places like Tasiilaq and Kulusuk focus on small-scale, locally led experiences — husky sledding, ice fjord hiking, and Inuit cultural storytelling. There are no mass cruise terminals here. Non-profit groups like Visit Greenland have launched guidelines promoting low-impact travel, and climate education is built into many itineraries. With permafrost melt and rising seas threatening daily life, tourism here is more about listening than consuming. 7. Fiji Fiji. Photo: iStock Fiji is taking climate resilience seriously. With over 80 marine protected areas and 100% of its national parks managed by local communities, the island nation has banned plastic bags, polystyrene, and microbeads. Coral planting is common at resorts like Six Senses and Jean-Michel Cousteau, which also run marine biology programmes for guests. In 2023, the country launched a national "Blue Bond" to fund reef restoration and eco-tourism projects. Snorkel responsibly in the Namena Marine Reserve or hike inland to Nabalesere Waterfall for a glimpse of untouched rainforest. 8. Dominica Dominica. Photo: Pixabay After being devastated by Hurricane Maria in 2017, Dominica has rebuilt with a climate-first mindset. It's now working towards becoming the world's first climate-resilient nation. The Waitukubuli National Trail, the Caribbean's longest hiking route, cuts through rainforests, hot springs and traditional Kalinago villages. Eco-resorts like Jungle Bay and Rosalie Bay are powered by renewables and employ local staff. Dominica's marine parks and dive sites, like Champagne Reef, are also protected by national legislation limiting overuse. 9. Bhutan Bhutan charges a Sustainable Development Fee of USD100 per day, directing funds to healthcare, education and conservation. It remains the world's only carbon-negative country, with over 70% forest cover. Travellers can now visit less-trodden areas like Haa Valley or Lhuntse, where community-based homestays are on the rise. Bhutan's tourism law requires all hotels to meet eco-certification standards, and new policies support electric vehicle adoption and waste-free trekking. Don't expect luxury excess — expect spiritual connection and quiet impact. 10. Botswana Botswana's low-impact model prioritises quality over quantity. The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers solar-powered tented camps like Gomoti Plains and Xigera Safari Lodge. Nearly 40% of the country is under some form of conservation. Community trusts manage wildlife corridors and receive direct proceeds from tourism. Elephant populations are thriving thanks to anti-poaching units partly funded by safari tourism. In the Central Kalahari, travellers can learn survival skills from San bushmen through vetted cultural exchanges. 11. Barbados Barbados. Photo: iStock Barbados is punching above its weight in the climate fight. It has pledged to be fossil fuel-free by 2030, with over 50% of power expected from solar by 2025. Tourism Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill has stated that all new tourism developments must meet green certification standards. ECO Lifestyle + Lodge uses rainwater harvesting and composting, while local tour operators like Walkers Reserve offer dune restoration workshops. The island's "slow food" movement is growing, with chefs like Damian Leach championing hyper-local menus. 12. Kyoto, Japan Kyoto. Photo: iStock Kyoto's efforts to curb overtourism include reservation-only systems at popular sites like Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari, and caps on tour buses in heritage zones. The city has banned short-stay rentals in residential areas and is promoting "slow travel" via its Kyotogram campaign. Visitors are encouraged to stay longer, support traditional crafts, and take public transport. Tea workshops in Uji, temple lodgings (shukubo), and local-run tofu tasting tours are helping support artisans struggling with tourism volatility.
