Thailand’s government developed a “Brainstorming workshop towards an APEC green road” with the objective of raising sustainability awareness in micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) of the tourism industry from member countries of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum (APEC).

The meeting sought to publicize the policies of green tourist destinations, promote green businesses and improve competitiveness in global value chains for sustainable and responsible tourism.

The Chilean delegation was composed by Cristóbal Benítez, in charge of the Experiences Development Unit of the Undersecretary of Tourism and José Puentes, CEO of tour operator Denomades. During the workshop, they both saw for the first time the works of Elephant POOPOOPaperPark, an open-air museum involved in making paper products from elephant poop fibers.

During their stay, the professionals also made an inspection visit to the Elephant Nature Park, sanctuary and rescue center for elephants; and to the Learning Center for Sustainable Agricultural Development in the Lisu tribe’s village.

The workshop was attended by 11 APEC member economies, including China, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Russia, Thailand, Viet Nam and Chile, as well as related international organizations and prominent private companies.

This strategy seeks to create green, sustainable and innovative MSMEs and is part of the APEC “Green Road” pilot, which aims to connect green businesses in the Asia-Pacific region.