(BANGKOK, Nov. 22, 2018) Phuket's public and private sectors recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on a ground breaking 'No Foam No Plastic' initiative at the Phuket Sustainable Tourism Blueprint 2018 held on 9 November. 

The MOU was signed by key private and public sector stakeholders on the island including Phuket Province and heads of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket Office, Phuket Tourism Council, Thai Hotels Association Southern Chapter, Phuket Industrial Council, Patong Hotels Association, Kata-Karon Hotels Association and the Phuket Chamber of Commerce. 

Patong Beach, Phuket

TAT Governor, Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, said: "This is an important step in the right direction in line with the Thai government's 'Thailand 4.0' sustainable tourism development goal. Hopefully, Phuket will be a positive case study that the whole country could follow. The importance of Phuket as one of Thailand's most high profile tourist destinations shouldn't be under estimated." 

The Phuket Sustainable Tourism Blueprint 2018 discussed the direction and timeframe on the collaboration from all stakeholders towards sustainable tourism development. It outlined a strategy of SCG: S – Safe and Smart, C- Clean and Convenience and G- Green and Global. All are earmarked with the utmost urgency for concurrent actions on Phuket-wide 'Clean and Green' challenges. 

Sino-Portuguese Building, the old Building in Phuket Old Town, Phuket

Under the MOU, the local administration plans to promote a 'No Foam, No Plastic' effort with local shops and the people effective as of 14 February, 2019, which will see them stop using foam containers for food or other items. Then, as from 1 October, 2019, this effort will be encouraged for the people to switch entirely to paper or eco-friendly bags and straw. 

The tourism sector will also inspire business partners to do the same from 14 February, 2019.