Thailand, famous for its picturesque beaches, dense forests, and energetic cities, remains one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. However, the rapid growth of mass tourism has contributed heavily to a plastic waste crisis, endangering marine ecosystems, littering scenic locations, and putting immense pressure on local waste management systems. Zero-waste tourism provides a responsible and sustainable way forward, allowing visitors to experience Thailand’s natural wonders while minimizing their ecological footprint. By embracing sustainable travel practices and supporting environmentally conscious businesses, tourists can help rejuvenate Thailand’s tourism sector without exacerbating its plastic waste issues.
The Impact of Plastic Waste in Thai Tourism
Thailand is among the leading sources of marine plastic pollution, with tourism significantly fueling the problem:
- Single-use plastics,—such as water bottles, plastic straws, and takeaway containers—dominate tourist-generated waste.
- It’s estimated that around 27.3 million tons of carbon emissions are linked to this waste each year.
- Tourist hotspots like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Maya Bay are heavily impacted by plastic pollution, prompting temporary closures for ecological restoration.
If left unaddressed, this growing pollution could jeopardize Thailand’s reputation as a pristine travel destination and further harm local ecosystems.
Embracing zero-waste tourism means making mindful travel choices, —avoiding disposable plastics and choosing accommodations and services that use sustainable alternatives. This approach supports Thailand’s National Roadmap on Plastic Waste Management (2018–2030), which targets a 75% reduction in plastic waste by 2030.
A growing number of local businesses are leading the change, —many in partnership with APP Group. These businesses are adopting biodegradable and reusable packaging to replace plastic. APP Group, a global leader in paper and pulp, is actively involved in supporting Thailand’s hospitality industry through its eco-friendly food packaging solutions. Its product, Foopak Bio Natura, offers a compostable alternative to conventional packaging by using advanced dispersion coating technology in place of plastic.
In addition to sustainable food packaging, APP Group also promotes environmentally conscious tissue products that appeal to the Thai market. With rising environmental awareness among Thai consumers, there is an increasing demand for biodegradable tissue products. APP Group addresses this need through offerings such as Livi Eco and Livi Evo, high-quality, hygienic tissue lines designed to decompose faster and reduce environmental impact.
The future of tourism in Thailand depends on reducing its reliance on plastic. With the support of companies like APP Group, both tourists and businesses can help preserve Thailand’s natural landscapes and contribute to a greener economy. Through collaborative action and commitment to zero-waste principles, Thailand can continue to thrive as a world-class travel destination—sustainably.
