BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand is setting a game-changing precedent as the first Southeast Asian nation to host a major regional sporting events with carbon neutrality at its core.
As host of the 33rd SEA Games and 13th ASEAN Para Games, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports is implementing the government’s policy through its ‘Green SEA Games & Sustainable Paralympics’ concept to create an environmentally friendly and sustainable sports festival. This marks the first time in Southeast Asia that a regional sporting event will prioritize low-carbon operations, focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions across all competition activities while maximizing resource efficiency to achieve carbon neutrality goals.
Dr. Kongsak, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand, emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change, noting that large-scale sporting events traditionally consume massive resources, including personnel, transportation, and catering, all of which have long-term environmental impacts.
Drawing inspiration from the 2024 Paris Olympics, which set new standards for Carbon Neutral Olympics through renewable energy use and efficient resource management, Thailand’s sports authority has adapted global best practices for the Southeast Asian context.
The initiative aims to enhance Thailand’s positive image as a host nation committed to sustainability while contributing tangibly to regional environmental protection efforts. (PRD)
