The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched the Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR) project to enhance sustainable tourism and augment Thailand’s standing as a sustainable destination, aligning with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
A collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Ministry of Public Health, the STAR project is an upgrade to the Amazing Thailand Safety & Health Administration (SHA) certification scheme launched in 2020 to elevate health and safety standards during the pandemic.
It is an integral part of Thailand’s strategic vision to cultivate a tourism sector that places a premium on both safety and sustainability, not only escalating Thailand’s global appeal in tourism as a destination for responsible travel, but also conserving its cultural heritage and natural allure for subsequent generations.
In order to enhance the sustainability framework for local travel entrepreneurs, travel entities are asked to rate themselves across four key dimensions in the tourism ecosystem, consisting of economic, social, environmental, and good governance factors.
Entrepreneurs who pass SDGs 13, 16 and 17 – Climate Action; Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions; and Partnerships for the Goals – earn three stars, while those who pass the aforementioned SDGs plus any other six SDGs are awarded four stars. To earn five stars, establishments must adhere to SDGs 13, 16 and 17 plus another nine or more goals – 12 or more total.
Enterprises adhering to the programme’s self-assessment criteria earn the Sustainable Star certificate, which is valid for two years.
The inaugural TAT Star certificate award ceremony was held on August 25, and recognised over 80 entrepreneurs meeting the project’s sustainable tourism standards.
Since the programme’s launch on August 16, 179 establishments have already applied and passed the criteria. The TAT Star website lists all entrepreneurs who have passed the criteria to date, with 132 entities having earned a five-star rating.
