Revisiting a critical dialogue seven years after the 2019 GSTC Asia-Pacific panel in Chiang Mai, this session examines the evolving landscape of elephant welfare in tourism. As the industry moves toward more ethical models, the debate over interaction must be grounded in a rigorous, scientific understanding of elephant care and behavior. Since thousands of captive elephants in Southeast Asia cannot return to the wild due to shrinking habitats, this session brings together experts to provide evidence-based insights. Because elephants cannot communicate their distress or well-being directly, we rely on scientific observation and welfare research to define appropriate standards. For travel providers navigating complex ethical choices, this discussion offers a deep dive into the latest data on captive elephant management, ensuring visitor interests are balanced with the highest standards of animal welfare.
- John Roberts – Director of Sustainability and Conservation, Minor Hotels Group
- Drinya Totrakool – Wildlife Project Manager, World Animal Protection [Presentation]
- Dr Pakkanut Bansiddhi (Imm) – Assistant Professor, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University
- Dr Pattarawan Phumpanna (Aon) – Chief Veterinary Officer, Khok Kloi Veterinary Centre, Southern Thailand Elephant Foundation [Presentation]
- Dr Siripat Khammesri – Elephant Venue Auditor, Asian Captive Elephant Standards (ACES) [Presentation]
- Natalie van Ogtrop – Sustainability Manager, YAANA Ventures [Presentation]
