Phuket, Thailand, played host to the 25th Inter-Islands Tourism Policy (ITOP) Forum from September 24 to 26, 2024, at the Pullman Karon Phuket Resort. This significant event marked a milestone in promoting sustainable tourism and community development for island destinations worldwide.
Over 150 key leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the globe gathered for the three-day forum, engaging in discussions on critical issues impacting island tourism. These included climate resilience, sustainability challenges, and economic inclusivity. With a focus on climate change, green finance, and biodiversity conservation, the forum explored how island destinations can navigate the environmental challenges posed by climate change while ensuring continued economic growth.
A key emphasis was placed on aligning tourism with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030. This highlighted the crucial role of tourism in fostering environmental protection, creating economic opportunities, and improving the well-being of communities.
On September 25th, a keynote seminar featuring Dr. Weerasak Kowsurat, former Minister of Tourism and Sports of Thailand, provided valuable insights into the impact of climate change on global tourism. Additionally, representatives from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Bank Thailand presented on how the SDGs and green finance initiatives can help drive sustainability in the tourism sector.
The forum showcased local sustainability projects, including Phuket Old Town’s Carbon Neutrality 2030 initiative, the Scholars of Sustenance (SOS) food rescue organization, Oceans for ALL, and the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project. These initiatives demonstrated practical solutions to the challenges facing island communities.
Delegations from various ITOP member regions, including Jeju, Okinawa, Hainan, Bali, Penang, Zanzibar, Cebu, and Hawaii, shared successful examples of sustainable tourism practices. These presentations highlighted innovative approaches that balance environmental preservation with economic development.
A highlight of the event was an interactive Hackathon, which challenged participants to develop creative solutions for tourism-related sustainability challenges. These challenges included water usage, waste reduction, and energy efficiency.
The forum culminated in a series of ceremonial events, including a governor’s tea ceremony, a signing ceremony, and a Gala Dinner on the evening of September 25th. These events celebrated the cultural and environmental contributions of island destinations.
On September 26th, attendees embarked on a post-event tour of Phuket Old Town, focusing on showcasing sustainable tourism practices. Led by the Phuket Young Ambassadors, participants explored how community-based tourism initiatives are helping to preserve the area’s cultural heritage while promoting sustainability. This tour underscored Phuket’s efforts to become a carbon-neutral tourism hub by 2030.
Throughout the forum, participants enjoyed numerous networking opportunities, including a Welcome Dinner on September 24th and a networking lunch at Blue Elephant on September 26th, where delegates were treated to authentic Thai hospitality. The event also served as a platform to spotlight Phuket as a key destination for cultural and sustainable tourism.
Notably, Phuket will host the Thailand Biennale in 2025, an international contemporary art festival focused on the theme of “Eternity.” Exploring the harmonious relationship between humans and nature, the festival will feature works by 60 artists from Thailand and around the world. Scheduled to run from November 2025 to April 2026, this event promises to further solidify Phuket’s position as a leading destination for sustainable and cultural tourism.
