Preserving the integrity of natural landscapes while accommodating increasing visitor interest is a critical challenge for protected areas and biodiversity hotspots. This session examines the strategies required to manage tourism in sensitive environments, focusing on the application of the GSTC Destination Criteria to mitigate environmental impact and enhance the quality of the visitor experience. The discussion brings together diverse perspectives from leading wildlife and nature destinations—including the forest landscapes of Sabah, the unique wilderness ecosystems of Botswana, and the coastal areas of Thailand. Panelists share insights from recent research on carrying capacity and the implementation of innovative spatial planning, seasonal management, and community-led conservation models. By exploring the balance between access and protection, this session demonstrates how data-driven management and stakeholder collaboration can transform natural areas into resilient, high-value destinations that support both conservation goals and local livelihoods.
- Dr. Kelly Bricker – Associate Dean, Director, Arizona State University; Vice Chair, GSTC
- Christiane Zeidan – Senior Director Regenerative Tourism Operations, Red Sea Global [Presentation]
- Mokganedi Ntana – Environment & Eco certification Manager, Botswana Tourism Organisation [Presentation]
- Prof. Dr. Pungpond Rukumnuaykit – Head of the Department of Public Administration, Chulalongkorn University [Presentation]
- Willem Niemeijer – CEO, YAANA Ventures [Presentation]
