≡-Thailand’s Local Communities Set to Lead the Way in Sustainable Tourism with Village to the World ESG Program – Viral of Today

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Home » THAILAND » Thailand’s Local Communities Set to Lead the Way in Sustainable Tourism with Village to the World ESG Program Monday, July 7, 2025In a groundbreaking move aimed at fostering sustainable tourism and local development, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in collaboration with the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) and various private sector partners, has launched the Village to the World #SustainableAgenda initiative. This ambitious program aims to turn local communities into real-world examples of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in action, aligning tourism growth with the values of sustainability.Anchored in TAT’s core strategy, the programme positions sustainable tourism as a key driver of Thailand’s long-term development. “Village to the World is more than a tourism project. It is a new blueprint for Thailand’s sustainable development — powered by community, backed by business, and measured by real impact,” said Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor.A Strong Start with High-Level SupportThe initiative was officially launched under the leadership of Ms. Thapanee, marking the beginning of a new era in community-driven, sustainable tourism. The launch event, which was attended by key leaders in the public and private sectors, brought together figures such as Dr. Soraphol Tulayasathien of SET, Mr. Issara Riutrakulpaiboon from the Department of Cultural Promotion at the Ministry of Tourism, senior executives from various SET-listed companies, community representatives, and members of the media. This diverse assembly of stakeholders reflects the broad support and collaborative effort behind the project.Creating ESG Partnerships for Real ImpactAt the heart of the Village to the World initiative is the concept of the ESG Partnership for Impact. This framework matches SET-listed companies with seven prototype communities across five provinces in Thailand. Together, they work on co-creating models that balance economic growth with social responsibility and environmental protection. The project represents a significant shift in how local communities engage with business, using ESG principles to shape a more sustainable future.The program is designed to empower these communities to become exemplary models of sustainability at the local level, with the hope that their successes will inspire similar projects across the country and beyond. Through these partnerships, the initiative aims to cultivate long-term, high-impact collaboration between the private sector and local communities, turning them into models of sustainable development and tourism.Spotlighting Community Initiatives Across ThailandThe program spans several communities across different provinces, each of which focuses on a unique aspect of sustainability.Chiang Mai: AIS has partnered with the Mae Soon Noi and Doi Wiang communities to enhance digital skill-building, providing opportunities for locals to thrive in the digital economy.Nan: SCG and Yournique are working with the Pa Laeo Luang community to implement circular economy models that encourage waste reduction and resource efficiency at the community level.Phitsanulok: The Ban Mung Nuea community benefits from BAFS’s efforts to link agriculture, safety, and sustainable tourism, creating a holistic approach to local development.Chon Buri: In the Ban Amphoe community, the focus is on solving marine waste challenges with long-term strategies for waste reduction and recycling.Lampang: Thai AirAsia and the Department of Cultural Promotion are collaborating with the Tha Ma-O and Pong Sanuk communities to develop new cultural tourism routes, helping to preserve local heritage while promoting sustainable tourism.These diverse initiatives are set to not only elevate the individual communities but also offer valuable insights into how other regions across Thailand can implement sustainable practices that enhance both their local economy and environment.From CSR to Shared ValueA key aspect of the Village to the World program is its shift from traditional Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to a model of Shared Value. Unlike CSR, which often focuses on giving back after profits have been made, Shared Value is about creating economic value in ways that also create value for society. By integrating sustainability directly into the business model, companies and communities can achieve a balanced, long-term impact that goes beyond charity and goodwill.This approach ensures that the initiatives are not just about philanthropy but about creating mutually beneficial relationships where business growth and community well-being go hand-in-hand. The goal is to leverage local potential for scalable, sustainable growth that can be replicated across the country.Supporting Partners and Widening AccessIn addition to the collaborative efforts with local communities and businesses, the campaign is supported by key players in the travel and tourism industry. Leading travel platforms such as Gother, Local Alike, Yournique, SiamRise, Friday Trip, Guide Guru, and Thai AirAsia are helping to make these communities more accessible to global travelers. By promoting these sustainable tourism destinations, these platforms are playing a pivotal role in raising awareness of local sustainability initiatives and encouraging responsible travel.The partnership with Thai AirAsia is particularly notable, as it provides convenient travel options for tourists to explore these communities. By making it easier for travelers to visit these local destinations, the initiative is helping to create a global network of travelers who are committed to supporting sustainable tourism practices.A National Movement for Sustainable TourismThe Village to the World #SustainableAgenda initiative marks the beginning of a broader movement in Thailand towards sustainable tourism. By empowering local communities and fostering public-private partnerships, the initiative is laying the foundation for a new era of responsible tourism that aligns with the principles of ESG. The progress made by these seven communities is expected to inspire similar efforts across Thailand, proving that sustainability can thrive at the grassroots level.Through this initiative, Thailand is setting an example for other nations on how tourism can be a driver of positive change. By prioritizing sustainability, social responsibility, and governance, the country is paving the way for a tourism industry that benefits both travelers and the communities they visit.Conclusion: A Model for the FutureThe Village to the World initiative is more than just a project; it is a vision for a sustainable future in tourism. By embracing ESG principles and encouraging collaboration between the public and private sectors, Thailand is positioning itself as a global leader in sustainable travel. The seven communities involved in this program are not only models of sustainability; they are proving that when businesses, governments, and communities come together, they can create lasting, positive change that benefits both the environment and society.«Enjoyed this post? Never miss out on future posts by following us»

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