Published on
November 10, 2025
During the Amazing Thailand Press Conference at the World Travel Market (WTM) 2025 in London, the Responsible Thailand Awards 2025 were given to persons or organisations who have made excellent contributions to sustainable tourism, thus recognising their efforts. The awards of this year, which celebrate the 18th iteration of the program, shed light on such initiatives that are associated with protecting the environment of Thailand, fostering moral tourism, and working with the locals to provide the travellers with unforgettable, responsible, and thoughtful experiences.
The awards were presented by Mr. Artthakorn Sirilatthayakorn, Minister of Tourism and Sports, during a ceremony that drew attention to Thailand’s leadership in promoting responsible tourism. These awards continue to shine a spotlight on tourism businesses and individuals who embody the core values of sustainability, ethical practices, and positive environmental impact across Thailand’s diverse regions.
Honouring Leadership in Responsible Tourism
The Responsible Thailand Awards featured five categories: Responsible Animal Welfare, Responsible Community Tourism, Responsible Conservation, Responsible Destination Management Company, and Responsible Tourism Accommodation. These categories showcase a holistic approach to tourism, recognising excellence in protecting wildlife, conserving natural resources, supporting local communities, and fostering long-term sustainable practices.
This year’s winners demonstrated exceptional achievements in their respective fields, offering innovative solutions for sustainable tourism and setting benchmarks for others to follow. The awards are part of Thailand’s broader efforts to integrate sustainable practices across its tourism industry, aligning with the Thailand Green Tourism Plan 2030 and global sustainable development goals.
Recognising Excellence in Animal Welfare, Community Engagement, and Conservation
The Responsible Animal Welfare Award was presented to Elephant Hills in Khao Sok National Park for its ongoing commitment to ethical elephant tourism. Known for its responsible observation-based elephant tourism, Elephant Hills continues to prioritise animal welfare through independent certifications and partnerships with veterinary organisations, making it a leader in sustainable wildlife tourism.
The Responsible Community Tourism Award was awarded to Tumlungwahn Community Enterprise in Suphan Buri. The community-based organisation focuses on providing authentic, locally led tourism experiences. The enterprise empowers local residents to manage tourism activities, ensuring fair income distribution and preserving traditional crafts, which strengthens community bonds and supports sustainable livelihoods.
In the Responsible Conservation category, Bang Rong Community-Based Tourism in Phuket was recognised for its exceptional efforts in mangrove protection and low-impact tourism. Its “low volume, high value” approach, which limits visitor numbers while promoting educational activities like kayaking and replanting, was praised as a model for linking conservation with tourism.
The Responsible Destination Management Company Award went to Discovery Travel Khao Lak, which was recognised for its sustainability initiatives and strong local collaboration. The company’s work in coastal clean-ups, mangrove and coral restoration, and hybrid boat conversions underscores its commitment to environmental preservation, making it a key player in responsible destination management.
Finally, the Responsible Tourism Accommodation Award was presented to Chiva-Som Hua Hin, a wellness resort that has excelled in sustainable development and community engagement. The resort’s dedication to preserving the local mangrove ecosystem and promoting sustainable tourism practices has set a benchmark for the hospitality and wellness industry in Thailand.
The Path Towards Sustainable Tourism in Thailand
The awards also highlight Thailand’s Thailand Green Tourism Plan 2030, which positions tourism as a catalyst for climate action and environmental preservation. By integrating sustainability across all aspects of tourism, Thailand aims to create a travel experience that uplifts communities, protects the environment, and contributes to long-term positive change.
As part of its commitment to sustainable tourism, Thailand continues to support initiatives such as the Thailand Tourism Awards, STAR programme, and CF Hotels, which focus on low-impact travel, community empowerment, and environmental stewardship. These awards serve as a call to action for other tourism businesses to follow the example of the winners, ensuring that sustainable tourism remains a core value of the Amazing Thailand experience.
Celebrating Sustainable Tourism Excellence
The Responsible Thailand Awards 2025 showcased the transformative impact of sustainable tourism practices across Thailand. By recognising the dedication and innovation of individuals and organisations in the tourism industry, these awards inspire a brighter, more sustainable future for the country’s tourism sector. Thailand continues to set the standard for responsible tourism, encouraging travellers and businesses alike to embrace sustainability in all aspects of the travel experience.
