Tourism-Zero Project to Promote Zero-Waste Management in the Tourism Industry

February 11

Chiang Mai University Launches Tourism-Zero Project to Promote Zero-Waste Management in the Tourism Industry and Support the Carbon Neutral University Policy Chiang Mai University is advancing sustainability with the launch of the Tourism-Zero project, which aims to develop knowledge and skills in zero-waste management in the hospitality and tourism sectors. This initiative aligns with the university’s Carbon Neutral University policy, supporting sustainable development. The Tourism-Zero project is an international collaboration, with Chiang Mai University serving as the Project Coordinator in partnership with leading universities and organizations from the European Union and other international partners. The primary goal is to develop curricula focused on waste management and resource administration in the hospitality and tourism industry, following the Zero Waste concept, which emphasizes minimizing waste generation. This project is funded by the European Commission under the Erasmus+ CBHE program with a budget exceeding 800,000 euros (approximately 30 million baht), with a planned implementation period of three years (2024-2026). The Kick-off event was held on January 21, 2025. Official Project Launch Chiang Mai University, Arts, Media, and Technology, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism from the Faculty of Humanities and other internal organizations such as the Energy Research and Development Institute – Nakornping, Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Education, Lifelong Learning College, and the Institute for Multidisciplinary Research, has officially launched the Tourism-Zero Project. This initiative aims to develop a curriculum for zero-waste management in the hospitality and tourism sector. This event, the official launch event took place at Ang Kaew Villa, Chiang Mai University, on February 11, 2025. The event featured a special panel discussion titled “The Future of Zero-Waste Tourism”, attended by representatives from government agencies, private sector businesses, and academic institutions. They shared insights and perspectives on waste management in the tourism industry and the role of various stakeholders in this initiative. Distinguished participants included: • Assistant Professor Dr. Worawit Janchai, Dean of the College of Arts, Media, and Technology • Assistant Professor Dr. Rawee Jansong, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities • Representatives from the tourism industry, such as: o Mr. Jirakorn Suwong – Secretary-General of the Tourism Council of Chiang Mai o Mr. Seksan Sutha – President of the Thai Lanna Spa Association and CEO of Fah Lanna Spa o Assistant Professor Dr. Yuthasak Chatkaewnapanon – Head of the Tourism Department, Faculty of Humanities, Chiang Mai University Additionally, the event included a special lecture on ” Chiang Mai University and its role in upgrading the skills of people of all ages through the CMU School of Lifelong Education”, presented by Associate Professor Dr. PradthanaJaipong, Director of the Lifelong Learning College. This session emphasized the importance of upskilling tourism professionals to adapt to sustainable development through the university’s lifelong learning platform. The Tourism-Zero project marks a significant milestone in Chiang Mai University’s leadership in sustainability. The university aims to become a Carbon Neutral University and support Thailand’s tourism industry in adopting sustainable waste management practices. Through this initiative, Chiang Mai University is not only advancing innovative academic programs but also fostering industry professionals and entrepreneurs to embrace a greener future in tourism.