Home » THAILAND » Phuket Set to Lead the Way in Sustainable Tourism at Global Sustainable Tourism Conference 2026 Global Event Published on
February 3, 2026Phuket, Thailand’s largest and most beloved island, will welcome tourism professionals, sustainability experts, and global leaders to the 2026 Global Sustainable Tourism Conference (GSTC) from 21 to 24 April 2026. Held at the Royal Phuket City Hotel and Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town, this prestigious event will focus on shaping the future of tourism with an emphasis on sustainability. By addressing the most critical challenges faced by the tourism sector, the conference will become an essential platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaborative efforts to build a more sustainable and resilient tourism industry worldwide.Phuket’s Sustainable Tourism Assessment: A Turning PointOne of the highlights of the GSTC 2026 conference will be the “Insights from the GSTC Destination Assessment of Phuket” workshop. This session will delve into the findings of an extensive destination assessment of Phuket, conducted between October 2024 and September 2025. The workshop will explore key insights into the current sustainability practices of the island, covering areas such as resource management, environmental conservation, and the socio-economic impact of tourism.Phuket, renowned for its picture-perfect beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage, has long been a top destination for international travelers. However, with the increasing number of tourists flocking to the island each year, Phuket faces unique challenges in balancing growth with sustainability. The GSTC 2026 conference will examine these challenges and showcase the progress Phuket has made in aligning its tourism strategies with sustainability goals. Through discussions and workshops, the event will explore how Phuket can continue to thrive while preserving its natural beauty and cultural integrity.AdvertisementAssessing Phuket’s Sustainable Practices: Strengths and ChallengesThe GSTC Destination Assessment of Phuket focused on four critical pillars of sustainability: sustainable management, socio-economic sustainability, cultural sustainability, and environmental sustainability. The assessment process included a mix of extensive research, field visits, and interviews with local stakeholders, authorities, and tourism experts.AdvertisementAdvertisementPhuket excels in the areas of sustainable management and socio-economic sustainability, thanks to a concerted effort from local authorities, tourism organizations, universities, and businesses. The island’s thriving cultural heritage, such as its unique Sino-Portuguese architecture, plays a crucial role in drawing visitors and cont …
