Established in 1970 and now observed by more than one billion people across more than 190 countries, World Earth Day presents an opportunity to demonstrate support for environmental responsibility and sustainability.

The 2020 celebration taking place on 22 April, marks the 50th anniversary of this unified response to environmental concerns, with the theme of Earth Day 2020 being climate action. Climate change represents the biggest challenge to the future of humanity and the life-support systems that make our world habitable.

As the ninth most visited tourist destination in the world, Thailand welcomes more than 39 Million visitors per annum of which over 500,000 come from the MENA region. With this comes a great obligation for responsible tourism that preserves the natural habitat, wildlife and traditions of this beautiful country.

For Earth Day 2020, Tourism Authority of Thailand have highlighted the best responsible and sustainable experiences for armchair travellers.  From connecting with destinations on 3D live stream to supporting sustainable coffee production, families, couples and friends can contribute to this year’s Earth Day and be transported to the beauty of Amazing Thailand without travelling.

Join 3D tours of 10 charming destinations

Amazing Thailand offers the chance to join 3D virtual tours to 10 charming destinations in nine provinces around Thailand. This includes visits to some of Thailand’s most fascinating natural and historical sites including Wat Si Chum temple in Sukothai to the north, and the mangrove forests of Chanthaburi in the east, where virtual visitors can observe native flora and fauna. As well as uninterrupted views of these stunning landmarks without having to leave your seat, travellers are also contributing to the rest and recovery of these mass tourist sites.

Discover an Eco-Tourism Hotel on Amazon Prime

Soneva Kiri is a luxury Thai resort with a strong focus on sustainability.  It has developed its own Soneva Carbon Calculator to monitor the full footprint of its operations including energy consumption, air travel, ground travel, freight, food, paper, waste and water. Leave No Trace, now showing on Amazon Prime, highlights luxurious destinations and travel experiences with a focus on eco-tourism, sustainability and social responsibility. Tune into Episode 2 as it goes behind-the-scenes of Soneva Kiri, documenting its commitment to fighting climate change.

Support sustainable coffee production

Established in 2010, Akha Ama Coffee is a sustainable coffee producer that provides jobs to the local community in the remote village of Maejantai in Northern Thailand. The company pays tribute to the Akha hill tribe – found in the mountains of northern Thailand, Laos, Burma and China’s Yunnan Province – and its founding mother – or ‘Ama’ in the Akha language – whose portrait is part of the company logo. Usually, its three-day Coffee Journey invites tourists into the daily lives of the coffee farmers, from bean to cup, supporting the production of this sustainable coffee farming. With travel now limited, travellers can still support the farm by purchasing its newly launched online store.

Learn about the native birds of Thailand

Home to over a thousand species of birds fluttering around Thailand’s natural landscape, the Kingdom has become a popular destination for bird watching enthusiasts. Through the Bird Conservation Society of Thailand (BCST), travellers can learn about these native birds from the comfort of their own home and support the work the organisation does through membership and volunteering. From hornbills, raptors, and kingfishers, there is plenty of species to appreciate on Thailand’s shores. As awareness and demand for sustainable tourism continues to rise, bird-spotting organisations provide an eco-friendly way to experience the country’s wildlife, in addition to locals ensuring the protection of their natural environment.

Prepare to visit a new nature trail in 2021

Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park in Rayong Province is developing a new nature trail that will allow visitors to study the amazing flora and fauna of this 131 square km park, whilst supporting conservation efforts. Established in 1981 as the 34^th national park of Thailand, Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park covers both land and sea, covering Khao Laem Ya, Mae Ramphueng Beach, the famous Ko Samet, Ko Kudi, Ko Thai Khang Khao, and Ko Kruai, including six islands in Rayong.

For more information, visit www.TourismThailand.org