Performance Tracking of Sustainable Tourism Goal (STG) Criteria for Achieving Thailand’s Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Targets in the Service Sector: A Case Study of Large Thai Hotels

Abstract

The tourism sector is a vital contributor to Thailand’s economy but also a significant source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This study aims to align Thailand’s Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs), established in late 2023, with the nation’s GHG reduction targets. Adapted from the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the STGs encompass 17 dimensions and 86 indicators but currently lack explicit quantitative targets. This research identifies key measurable criteria in energy (STGs 7, 11, 13), waste management (STG 12), and water management (STG 6), focusing on data from large hotels to assess their GHG emissions and reduction potential. The findings indicate that implementing STG measures could reduce emissions by 527,291 tCO2eq, equivalent to 4.80% of the national GHG reduction target, through energy conservation, waste management, and water efficiency measures. Adjusted targets, including an 18.50% reduction in the energy sector (107 hotels), a 21.00% reduction in waste (121 hotels), and a 2.50% reduction in wastewater (14 hotels), could enable large hotels to achieve a reduction of 83,880 tCO2eq, allowing them to fully meet their assigned reduction responsibilities. Furthermore, this would contribute 0.76% to the national target. This study demonstrates how integrating measurable components into the STG framework can enhance the tourism sector’s role in achieving national climate goals and promoting sustainable practices.