PATA Releases New Report on Tropical Coastal Cities’ Sustainable Tourism Development

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has released a new report titled “Developing Sustainable Tourism in Tropical Coastal Cities: Global Case Studies” at the 2025 Tropical Coastal City Tourism Event in Sanya, China. Key Highlights of the Report:

Four Pillars of Sustainable Development:
1. Proper resource management
2. Harmonious coexistence between locals and visitors
3. Diversification of economy and tourism products
4. Implementation of sustainable practices across the private sector

Case Studies Featured:
- Sanya, China: Coral reef restoration, marine ranch demonstration zones, and zero-waste tourism attractions.
- Thailand: Comprehensive water resource management, conservation campaigns, and fiscal measures to promote water efficiency.
- Indonesia (Desa Potato Head Resort): Achieved a 97.5% recycling rate, introduced solar power, and developed Styroshell technology to recycle styrofoam into usable amenities.

Climate Context:
- The World Meteorological Organisation reported record-high sea-surface temperatures in the South-West Pacific in 2024.
- Rising visitor volumes and careless human activity are adding pressure to fragile ecosystems.

Leadership Remarks:
- PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid emphasized the urgency of collective action and knowledge-sharing to protect tropical coastal destinations.

Strategic Importance
- Provides actionable insights for governments, tourism boards, and private operators.
- Encourages responsible tourism models balancing economic growth, environmental conservation, and socio-cultural sustainability.
- Aligns with PATA’s broader mission to advance regenerative and climate-conscious tourism across Asia-Pacific.

📌 This report is part of PATA’s 2025 research portfolio, which also includes the Annual Tourism Monitor, Halal Travel Trends Report, and Human Capital Development Report.