| Daily news, 23 Jan 2008 |
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| by Luc Citrinot |
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BANGKOK - The ASEAN Tourism Ministers Meeting in Bangkok was the occasion to show the region’s commitment to a sustainable tourism development. “Green awareness and standards are essential to emphasise the quality of ASEAN tourism,” said Suvit Yodmani, Thailand Minister of Tourism.
Environment is one of six ASEAN tourism standards which have been adopted by all of ASEAN’s ten member-countries. Major criteria encompass an environmental chart policy, the use of green products, energy and water conservation, solid waste management, noise pollution control as well as improving the quality of life of surrounding communities to hotels. In total, 81 hotels, mostly independent hotels or small chains were feted with the Green Recognition Award.
The award for hotels is only a first step, according to most ministers. “We look now to award restaurants and souvenir shops,” said Suvit Yodmani. “We like to see the tourism industry being more responsible to global warming and we will hope to see green initiatives spread up to transportation,” added Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, Malaysia Minister of Tourism.
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