In a historic collaboration, Mahidol University International College (MUIC) partnered with the Department of Tourism, Green Destinations, and Travelife for Tour Operators, in a project called the Thailand Green Tourism Plan 2030, a nationwide initiative aimed at elevating Thailand’s tourism industry to international sustainability standards.

The signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the four key partners was held on August 6, 2025 at the Spectrum Screening Room, Aditayathorn Building, MUIC, with the participation of:

1. Prof. Piyamitr Sritara, MD, FRCP, President of Mahidol University
2. Mr. Boonserm Khankaew, Deputy Director General of the Department of Tourism
3. Mr. Naut Kusters, Manager of Travelife for Tour Operators
4. Ms. Patice Talaue, Training and Support Program Manager of Green Destinations

This strategic alliance sets a clear course for enhancing tourism destinations, businesses, and local communities across the country, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to be achieved by 2030.

As the project’s academic core, Mahidol University International College (MUIC) plays a pivotal role in leading research, developing sustainable tourism frameworks, and launching the Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Center of Thailand (STAC Thailand). The center will serve as a national mechanism to promote systemic transformation toward sustainable practices throughout the tourism sector.

In addition to the four key partners, over 50 committed partner organizations from the public, private, and civil society sectors have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to demonstrate their collective commitment to advancing responsible and sustainable tourism practices in Thailand. These organizations will act as local champions and facilitators in mainstreaming sustainability principles, training practitioners, and applying global certification standards.

This collaboration marks a significant step toward reforming Thailand’s tourism system, particularly in areas of certification, evaluation, and incentive structures. It also promotes broader community engagement and industry participation, creating conditions for lasting development and global recognition.

MUIC, through its academic expertise and youth engagement, serves as a vital force in translating policy into action. By integrating sustainability education, stakeholder participation, and evidence-based policy development, MUIC supports the practical implementation of the plan.

The cooperation between the four key partners encompasses the development and revision of evaluation criteria, training of national-level mentors, and the establishment of a sustainability certification system for qualified operators. These efforts aim to prepare Thai destinations for international recognition, including participation in the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories, a global platform celebrating sustainable tourism innovation and best practices.

The Thailand Green Tourism Plan 2030 is more than a policy framework; it is an investment in the future of Thailand’s tourism sector—one that balances economic growth with environmental preservation and cultural heritage, ensuring long-term benefits for communities and future generations.

Prof. Chulathida Chomchai, M.D., Dean of MUIC, along with Mahidol University and MUIC executives, as well as Tourism and Hospitality Management (THM) Division officials and faculty members, attended to demonstrate institutional support for this landmark initiative.