Thailand is once again making waves on the global sustainability stage. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced that Lanta Archipelago National Park in Krabi has secured a coveted spot in the 2025 Green Destinations Top 100 Stories, joining nine other standout Thai destinations recognised for their commitment to responsible tourism.
The announcement was made during the Green Destinations Global Conference 2025 in Montpellier, France, hosted by the Netherlands-based Green Destinations Foundation.
A Community Story Worth Celebrating
Lanta Archipelago National Park won acclaim for its inspiring, community-led marine conservation initiative under TAT’s Krabi Prototype model. Its award-winning entry, “A Hero’s Tale from Lanta Island,” spotlighted the Return Home to Hermit Crabs project—an inventive effort aimed at solving the shortage of seashells that hermit crabs rely on for survival.
By encouraging tourists and locals to donate unused seashells, the project not only provides new “homes” for hermit crabs but also reduces marine waste, boosts environmental awareness, and strengthens long-term community involvement. It has become a shining example of grassroots conservation with tangible impact.
A Milestone for Thailand’s Sustainable Tourism Vision
TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool underscored the significance of the recognition, stating:
“Thailand’s success in the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories shows that sustainability is no longer an aspiration, but a defining principle of our tourism development. The Lanta Archipelago National Park achievement under the Krabi Prototype demonstrates how collaboration with partners, communities, and entrepreneurs can deliver meaningful impact.”
She added that the milestone reaffirms Thailand’s growing leadership in shaping a more responsible global tourism future.
Driving National Progress Through Sustainable Tourism
Thailand continues to push ahead with comprehensive sustainability programmes aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including:
- 17 Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs)
- Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STGs STAR)
- Carbon Footprint Hotels (CF-Hotels)
- Thailand Tourism Awards
Together, these initiatives encourage tourism operators to preserve the environment, celebrate cultural heritage, and work closely with local communities—solidifying Thailand’s position as a global model for sustainable tourism.
Ten Thai Destinations Recognised Globally
In addition to Lanta Archipelago National Park, nine other Thai destinations were recognised in the 2025 Top 100 Stories:
- Royal Park Rajapruek, Chiang Mai
- Kui Buri National Park, Prachuap Khiri Khan
- Uthai Thani Old Town, Uthai Thani
- Mu Ko Chang National Park, Trat
- Tha Chai Community, Si Satchanalai, Sukhothai
- Chak Ngaew Ancient Chinese Market, Chon Buri
- Chiang Khan, Loei
- Nan Old Town, Nan
- Na Kluea Old Town, Chon Buri
These destinations will be promoted globally through the Green Destinations network, amplifying Thailand’s reputation as a world leader in sustainable travel.
For more information on the 2025 Green Destinations Top 100 Stories, visit:
www.greendestinations.org/top-100-destinations