Publication: Enhancing low-carbon tourism based on local resources and carbon footprint assessment of community tourism routes in Ban Rak Thai, Mae Hong Son
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Issued Date
2026-04-01
Resource Type
eISSN
26751240
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105017395625
Journal Title
Multidisciplinary Science Journal
Volume
8
Issue
4
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Multidisciplinary Science Journal Vol.8 No.4 (2026)
Suggested Citation
Junead J., Vanitchung S., Limpanitgul T. Enhancing low-carbon tourism based on local resources and carbon footprint assessment of community tourism routes in Ban Rak Thai, Mae Hong Son. Multidisciplinary Science Journal Vol.8 No.4 (2026). doi:10.31893/multiscience.2026238 Retrieved from: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14740/55286
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Abstract
This study explores the development of low-carbon tourism (LCT) using local resources and evaluates the carbon footprint of community-based tourism routes in Ban Rak Thai, Mae Hong Son Province. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates quantitative data from 385 Thai tourists with qualitative insights from 35 key informants through surveys, interviews, and participatory community engagement. The analysis of tourism potential across eight dimensions highlights the area’s rich natural landscape, distinctive Yunnanese-Chinese culture, sustainable agricultural practices, and strong community involvement. However, challenges remain, particularly in waste management, renewable energy usage, and eco-friendly transportation systems. Tourist behavior analysis indicates a strong willingness to engage in environmentally responsible travel, with a mean score of 4.39 out of 5. Two prototype one-day tourism routes were developed and tested with actual tourists to assess their carbon footprint. The results show that most activities, including hiking, tea-making workshops, and cycling, generated low or negligible greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Emissions were primarily linked to food consumption and fossil-fuel-based transportation. The study affirms the feasibility of LCT as a sustainable development model, aligning with national and global environmental goals. It also demonstrates that integrating scientific carbon footprint analysis with community-based tourism planning can lead to effective, localized strategies for sustainable tourism. Recommendations include promoting clean energy in local accommodations, improving waste infrastructure, and developing green transportation options. The findings offer a replicable framework for low-carbon rural tourism that is applicable to other destinations in Thailand and similar contexts worldwide. This research contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable tourism and climate change mitigation through community empowerment and informed planning.