The Tourism Authority of Thailand, supported by Koh Samui’s local authorities, residents, and tourists, is launching a campaign to reduce plastic waste on the island by eliminating the use of disposable plastics. Many hotels and shops have already joined the initiative and stopped using polyethylene and polyvinylchloride containers, tableware and cutlery. Beginning 1 November, tourists heading to Koh Samed will be prohibited from packing food and belongings in plastic bags and polystyrene foam.
First-time offenders will be warned, and repeat offenders will receive a THB 1,5000 (around US$46) fine.