Published on
January 7, 2026
South Korea joins Slovenia, Thailand, Vietnam, Denmark, New Zealand, and more in adopting sustainable tourism practices to ensure long-term growth and eco-conscious travel by embracing responsible policies that balance environmental preservation with tourism development. As the world shifts towards greener travel, these nations are leading the charge, implementing strategies that focus on reducing carbon footprints, supporting local communities, and fostering more meaningful, eco-friendly travel experiences. By doing so, they not only preserve their natural and cultural assets but also ensure that tourism can thrive in a way that benefits future generations.
The tourism landscape in 2025 is evolving, with countries around the world increasingly shifting towards sustainable tourism models. These efforts are aimed at not only recovering from the pandemic’s disruptions but also ensuring the long-term viability of the travel industry. South Korea, alongside countries like Slovenia, Thailand, Vietnam, Denmark, and New Zealand, is embracing sustainable tourism with an eye on both environmental protection and socio-economic development. As the world heads into 2026, these nations are setting a remarkable example of how to balance economic growth with responsible tourism practices. Here’s a closer look at how each country is adapting to the sustainability challenge.
South Korea’s Commitment to Sustainable Tourism
As South Korea enters 2026, its tourism industry stands at a pivotal crossroads. While the country has made impressive strides in its recovery from the pandemic, there is a stronger focus now on shifting towards sustainable growth. The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) is taking the lead, emphasizing the importance of responsible tourism that not only meets global expectations but also contributes positively to local communities and the environment.
A significant part of this strategy is the development of regional tourism, which helps to distribute visitors more evenly across the country, reducing overcrowding in hotspots like Seoul and Jeju Island. By promoting lesser-known destinations and encouraging eco-tourism, South Korea aims to foster a sustainable tourism model that benefits both the environment and the local economies. Additionally, leveraging cutting-edge digital tools such as AI-driven visitor management systems is a crucial component of the strategy, enabling more efficient handling of tourist flows and improving overall service quality.
In 2026, South Korea is set to surpass 20 million international arrivals, marking an important milestone. However, this growth will be carefully managed to avoid the pitfalls of mass tourism. Strategic investments in infrastructure, workforce training, and sustainable tourism services will ensure that the country remains competitive while preserving its cultural heritage and natural landscapes.
Slovenia: A Green Pioneer in Sustainable Tourism
Slovenia has long been a global leader in sustainable tourism. The country’s efforts have been built on a commitment to preserving its pristine natural environment, including forests, lakes, and caves, while offering tourists immersive cultural experiences. Slovenia was one of the first nations to achieve the Green Destinations certification, highlighting its success in maintaining a balance between growth and environmental protection.
The government’s focus on sustainability is reflected in the implementation of green policies that encourage eco-friendly accommodations, sustainable transportation, and nature-based tourism experiences. In recent years, Slovenia has also expanded its eco-tourism offerings, including sustainable hiking, cycling, and wellness tourism options. These efforts have made Slovenia a prime example of how smaller nations can successfully implement sustainable tourism practices, attracting eco-conscious travelers from around the world.
Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, has been designated as one of the greenest cities in Europe, boasting eco-friendly public transportation, pedestrian zones, and low-carbon initiatives. The country’s dedication to sustainability and responsible tourism is not just a policy but a core part of its identity, setting an example for others to follow.
Thailand: Merging Tradition with Green Tourism
In Thailand, sustainable tourism has become a top priority as the country looks to balance its booming tourism sector with environmental conservation. Thailand’s government has increasingly embraced the idea of sustainable destinations, focusing on conservation, reducing the environmental footprint of tourism, and empowering local communities to benefit from tourism growth.
Thailand is home to some of the world’s most famous eco-tourism destinations, including Khao Sok National Park and the Similan Islands, which are renowned for their biodiversity. The country is investing heavily in preserving these natural wonders while ensuring that visitors can still experience the beauty of its landscapes in a responsible manner.
One of the key aspects of Thailand’s sustainable tourism strategy is its emphasis on community-based tourism. By empowering local communities to create authentic, eco-friendly travel experiences, Thailand is ensuring that tourism benefits are more evenly distributed, both economically and socially. From ethical wildlife tourism in Chiang Mai to eco-lodges in the northern hills, Thailand is setting an example of how tourism can coexist with environmental stewardship.
Vietnam: A Rising Star in Sustainable Travel
Vietnam has made significant strides in sustainable tourism, especially in recent years. The country’s increasing popularity as a travel destination has been matched by its commitment to protecting its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. Vietnam’s tourism strategy is built around sustainability, with a focus on eco-tourism, cultural tourism, and responsible travel practices.
From the vibrant Hạ Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to the serene landscapes of Sapa, Vietnam is actively working to preserve its natural treasures while offering visitors unique experiences. The country has also implemented policies that encourage responsible travel, such as reducing waste in tourist hotspots and promoting eco-friendly accommodations.
Vietnam’s commitment to sustainable tourism is also reflected in its growing network of green certifications for hotels and tour operators, which are encouraged to adopt more environmentally friendly practices. With increasing demand for eco-conscious travel, Vietnam is positioning itself as a top destination for travelers looking to experience authentic culture and nature without compromising sustainability.
Denmark: Leading Sustainable Tourism in Europe
Denmark has long been recognized as a pioneer in sustainability, and its tourism industry is no exception. Copenhagen, the country’s capital, has been ranked as one of the most sustainable cities in the world, thanks to its focus on green initiatives, such as cycling infrastructure, renewable energy, and waste reduction programs. Denmark is committed to reducing its tourism carbon footprint and is encouraging visitors to make environmentally conscious choices while traveling.
One of Denmark’s key sustainable tourism initiatives is the Copenhagen Climate Partnership, which brings together various stakeholders in the tourism sector to promote sustainable practices. Additionally, Denmark’s Green Key certification program helps encourage hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses to adopt eco-friendly measures.
In 2025-2026, Denmark is expected to continue leading the way in sustainable tourism, with a focus on slow travel, which promotes longer stays and deeper, more meaningful experiences for visitors. This approach aligns with global trends toward more mindful travel and will likely inspire other nations to follow suit.
New Zealand: A Champion of Eco-Friendly Travel
New Zealand has built a global reputation for its commitment to sustainability, and its tourism industry is embracing this ethos with enthusiasm. Known for its stunning landscapes, from glaciers to rainforests, New Zealand’s government is taking steps to protect these natural wonders while fostering responsible tourism growth.
The country’s Tiaki Promise, a nationwide initiative aimed at encouraging travelers to respect and protect New Zealand’s natural and cultural heritage, has gained significant traction. The program calls for visitors to care for the environment, respect local communities, and travel responsibly. This initiative reflects New Zealand’s broader commitment to sustainable tourism, with government and industry partners working together to create more eco-friendly travel experiences.
In addition to eco-conscious policies, New Zealand is focusing on regional tourism to spread the benefits of tourism beyond its major cities. The country is promoting lesser-known regions, such as the Catlins and Wairarapa, to encourage travelers to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. By doing so, New Zealand is helping to alleviate pressure on its most popular tourist spots while ensuring that all areas of the country benefit from tourism.
In 2025-2026, countries like South Korea, Slovenia, Thailand, Vietnam, Denmark, and New Zealand are leading the way in sustainable tourism. Their efforts demonstrate a commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental protection, cultural preservation, and community empowerment. As the world’s demand for eco-conscious travel grows, these nations are setting the stage for a more responsible, inclusive, and sustainable future for global tourism.
South Korea joins Slovenia, Thailand, Vietnam, Denmark, New Zealand, and more in adopting sustainable tourism practices to ensure long-term growth and eco-conscious travel by prioritizing environmental preservation and responsible tourism development. This strategic shift aims to balance economic benefits with the protection of cultural and natural resources.
By focusing on eco-friendly practices, digital innovation, regional tourism, and community engagement, these countries are not only enhancing their competitiveness in the global tourism market but also ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty and richness of their cultures and landscapes. Sustainable tourism is no longer just a trend—it is a necessity, and these countries are showing the world the way forward.
