The 2020 celebration took place on April 22, marks the 50th anniversary of this unified response to environmental concerns, with the theme of Earth Day 2020 being climate action. Climate change represents the biggest challenge to the future of humanity and the life-support systems that make our world habitable. As the ninth most visited tourist destination in the world, Thailand welcomes more than 39 million visitors per annum of which over 500,000 come from the MENA region. With this comes a great obligation for responsible tourism that preserves the natural habitat, wildlife and traditions of this beautiful country.
For Earth Day 2020, Tourism Authority of Thailand have highlighted the best responsible and sustainable experiences for armchair travellers. From connecting with destinations on 3D live stream to supporting sustainable coffee production, families, couples and friends can contribute to this year’s Earth Day and be transported to the beauty of Amazing Thailand without travelling.
Amazing Thailand offers the chance to join 3D virtual tours to 10 charming destinations in nine provinces around Thailand. This includes visits to some of Thailand’s most fascinating natural and historical sites including Wat Si Chum temple in Sukothai to the north, and the mangrove forests of Chanthaburi in the east, where virtual visitors can observe native flora and fauna. As well as uninterrupted views of these stunning landmarks without having to leave your seat, travellers are also contributing to the rest and recovery of these mass tourist sites.
SonevaKiri is a luxury Thai resort with a strong focus on sustainability. It has developed its own Soneva Carbon Calculator to monitor the full footprint of its operations including energy consumption, air travel, ground travel, freight, food, paper, waste and water. Leave No Trace, now showing on Amazon Prime, highlights luxurious destinations and travel experiences with a focus on eco-tourism, sustainability and social responsibility. Tune into Episode 2 as it goes behind-the-scenes of SonevaKiri, documenting its commitment to fighting climate change.
Usually, its three-day Coffee Journey invites tourists into the daily lives of the coffee farmers, from bean to cup, supporting the production of this sustainable coffee farming. With travel now limited, travellers can still support the farm by purchasing its newly launched online store.
Home to over a thousand species of birds fluttering around Thailand’s natural landscape, the Kingdom has become a popular destination for bird watching enthusiasts. Through the Bird Conservation Society of Thailand (BCST), travellers can learn about these native birds from the comfort of their own home and support the work the organisation does through membership and volunteering. From hornbills, raptors, and kingfishers, there is plenty of species to appreciate on Thailand’s shores. As awareness and demand for sustainable tourism continues to rise, bird-spotting organisations provide an eco-friendly way to experience the country’s wildlife, in addition to locals ensuring the protection of their natural environment.
KhaoLaemYa-Mu KoSamet National Park in Rayong Province is developing a new nature trail that will allow visitors to study the amazing flora and fauna of this 131 square km park, whilst supporting conservation efforts. Established in 1981 as the 34th national park of Thailand, KhaoLaemYa-Mu KoSamet National Park covers both land and sea, covering KhaoLaemYa, Mae Ramphueng Beach, the famous KoSamet, KoKudi, Ko Thai KhangKhao, and KoKruai, including six islands in Rayong.