KRANJ, Slovenia – Koh Tao earned two international honors for its sustainable tourism and environmental conservation efforts at the Green Destinations Global Conference 2026, held in Kranj, Slovenia, from October 27 to 29. The island received the Bronze-level Green Destinations Award and secured a place in the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories 2026, recognizing its progress in responsible tourism and sustainable destination management.
Koh Tao Tourism Association President Rumluek Assavachin and Thailand Green Coach Radda Larpnun represented the island at the conference and accepted the honors. The Bronze award recognizes progress in sustainable tourism management, while the Top 100 Stories selection acknowledges good practices in responsible tourism. Both distinctions recognize the collective efforts of residents, businesses, volunteers, and partner organizations to protect the island’s natural resources.
Representatives from other Thai destinations, including Mae Hong Son, Takua Pa, Ban Chiang, and Uthai Thani Old Town, also attended the conference. Delegates from the Department of Tourism, the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), Mahidol University, and Silpakorn University also joined, highlighting nationwide cooperation in promoting environmentally responsible tourism.
The Koh Tao Tourism Association expressed appreciation to those who contributed to the island’s achievements and congratulated other Thai destinations that received international recognition. The awards are expected to encourage continued cooperation among local communities and tourism operators to preserve Koh Tao’s natural environment while supporting long-term tourism development that benefits both residents and visitors. (NNT)
