PHUKET – In a resonant call for action, Governor Sophon Suwannarat underscored the transformative power of sustainable tourism as a cornerstone for bolstering local communities, especially in the wake of climate-induced calamities like the floods and storms that have recently struck Phuket. Speaking on Wednesday at the prestigious 25th Inter-Islands Tourism Policy (Itop) Forum, held at the luxurious Pullman Phuket Karon Beach Resort, the Governor set the tone for a pivotal event.
The forum has attracted over 150 global leaders and policymakers who have convened to chart the future of tourism amidst the looming specter of climate change. With a palpable urgency, Mr. Sophon highlighted the necessity for united efforts to confront these environmental challenges through sustainable tourism practices. In his poignant address, he also extended heartfelt condolences to the victims and families affected by recent natural disasters.
The tragic landslide on August 23, which claimed 13 lives in Phuket, served as a grim reminder of the urgent need for improved disaster prevention mechanisms. This calamity has only intensified the focus of this year’s Itop meeting, which tackles pressing issues such as the profound impact of climate change on tourism, the intricacies of green finance, and the imperative of biodiversity conservation.
Adding depth to the discussions, Weerasak Kowsurat, a former Minister of Tourism and Sports, eloquently elaborated on the adverse effects that climate change has inflicted on tourism. Representatives from premier institutions like the UN Development Programme and the World Bank further enriched the dialogue by pledging to delve into the ways in which the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) along with green finance initiatives can bolster global sustainability efforts.
The forum’s attendees aren’t just passively absorbing information; they are actively participating in engaging, interactive sessions. These include a dynamic hackathon designed to brainstorm and implement innovative solutions for critical issues such as water resource management, waste management, energy efficiency, and elevating sustainable tourism awareness.
To ground these theoretical discussions in practical realities, Thursday’s agenda is replete with insightful field trips. Attendees will have the opportunity to witness firsthand Phuket’s robust sustainability efforts. Highlights include an enlightening tour of the island’s charming Old Town, where a groundbreaking carbon neutrality initiative is underway, and visits to local communities that are beacons of cultural and environmental preservation.
Adding another feather to its cap, Phuket has been chosen as the host for the Thailand Biennale 2025, a global exhibition of contemporary art orchestrated by the Office of Contemporary Art and Culture under the Ministry of Culture. This artistic extravaganza, running from November 2025 to April 2026, will revolve around the evocative theme of “Eternity,” aiming to explore and celebrate the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature through the lens of sustainability.
Established in 1997, the Itop Forum has steadfastly held its mission to foster collaboration among the governments of island cities and regions worldwide. With 13 member regions, the forum serves as a vital platform for sharing knowledge and devising solutions to the unique challenges faced by island destinations. Through events like the Itop Forum, the vision of a sustainable, resilient future for global tourism becomes a more tangible reality.
I appreciate the focus on sustainable tourism, but isn’t this just a lot of talk without actual action?
True, but at least discussions like these are starting points for real change.
I get that, but I want to see concrete plans and not just more meetings.
The field trips and practical sessions seem promising. They’re not just talking.
It’s great that they’re addressing climate change, but won’t tourism ultimately harm these fragile environments?
If done sustainably, tourism can actually help preserve these areas by raising awareness and funding conservation efforts.
That’s a good point, but it still seems like a fine line to walk.
Plus, tourism often leads to overdevelopment. Just look at how many once-beautiful places have been ruined.
Sustainable tourism is definitely a challenge, but ignoring tourism isn’t the solution either.
Isn’t it ironic that such a fancy event is being held at a luxurious resort while talking about sustainability?
Totally agree. Feels very hypocritical to me.
Exactly, they should practice what they preach!
I’m glad to see that actual experts from the UN and World Bank are involved.
Fancy words aren’t going to prevent the next disaster. We need action!
That’s why they have these events—to create actionable plans.
Let’s hope these plans actually get implemented and not just sit on paper.
I’m excited about the Thailand Biennale 2025. Art and sustainability together sounds amazing.
What’s the point of talking about biodiversity when every new construction destroys more of it?
It’s about finding balance. They’re not saying to stop development altogether, just to do it responsibly.
Responsible development sounds great, but it’s rarely followed in practice.
It’s a hard balance to achieve, but we have to keep trying.
The involvement of local communities is essential for any sustainable tourism effort. Glad they mentioned it.
Yes, but local communities often get sidelined in favor of big business interests.
The carbon neutrality initiative in Old Town sounds really interesting. I’d love to learn more about it.
Has anyone actually calculated the carbon footprint of this forum itself? Feels a bit counterproductive.
Good question! It would be interesting to see how they offset those emissions.
They should openly publish those calculations for transparency.
The hackathon idea is brilliant! Maybe we’ll see some real innovation come out of it.
I lost family in the August landslide. I hope these discussions lead to better disaster prevention.
So sorry for your loss. Let’s hope they can prevent future tragedies.
Finally, someone is talking about green finance. We need those funds to make any real changes!
It’s amazing how these forums gather so many bright minds together. Hopefully, it leads to tangible outcomes.
I think the cultural preservation aspect often gets overlooked. Glad they’re giving it attention.
Yes, it’s crucial. Culture and environment are deeply intertwined.
Cultural tourism can be a double-edged sword though. Overexposure can erode local traditions.
Why don’t they address the elephant in the room—over-tourism? More tourists equal more problems.
It’s easy to criticize, but these kinds of events are necessary if we’re going to solve global issues.
Too many buzzwords, not enough substance.
It’s a start. Concrete plans don’t materialize out of thin air.