Joanna James
Amidst the lively night markets and towering mega malls, Bangkok offers surprising opportunities for eco-conscious travellers. Despite its metropolitan landscape, exploring the city sustainably comes in many forms. Hop on a bicycle or public transport, and weave through Thailand's capital for a glimpse into the best eco-friendly things to do in Bangkok. By incorporating these eco-friendly practices into your citywide itinerary, you can enjoy your trip while minimising your impact on the environment.
Discover Thailand's green capital in a unique and sustainable way, by embarking on a bamboo cycling tour, one of the most relaxing things to do in Bangkok. Growing in abundance across Asia, bamboo is widely regarded as a favourite crop for the eco-conscious, as it is biodegradable, easily renewable and needs little to no fertilisers to grow. Several companies offer guided tours on bicycles crafted with this highly sustainable material, taking you through the city's hidden gems and popular sites, and allowing you to explore at a leisurely pace while minimising your carbon footprint.
Choosing eco-friendly accommodation is a crucial step in sustainable travel. Bangkok boasts a growing number of hotels and guesthouses that prioritise environmental sustainability. Look for accommodations with certifications such as Green Leaf or those that implement energy-saving practices and support local communities. For those looking to stay in Bangkok's old quarter, Tinidee Trendy Bangkok Khaosan utilises clean energy and water conservation practices, as well as sustainably sourcing their produce.
Bangkok boasts numerous parks and green spaces, pockets of green perfect for escaping the city's urban bustle. Lumphini Park, Benjakitti Park, and Chatuchak Park are some popular choices, equipped with lakes, jogging paths, unique installations and even fascinating populations of wildlife. Additionally, opt for public transportation like the MRT or BTS Skytrain to reduce your carbon emissions while exploring these oases. This network of high-speed trains running through the city is fairly convenient for even tourists to use, as ticketing systems and maps are readily available in English. These sky trains and subways are also a great way to escape Bangkok's infamous traffic and rush hours.
Away from the luxury retail stores and international labels, embrace sustainable fashion by exploring Bangkok's vibrant thrift scene. Discover unique clothing items, accessories, and home decor while reducing waste and supporting the circular economy. There are several vintage and secondhand shops scattered throughout the city, offering a treasure trove of hidden gems. Sukhumvit offers second-hand jewellery stores, while unique vintage finds pop up at stores in Watthana. Or, wander through the electric stalls of Bangkok's popular night markers, and hunt down retro fashion pieces and an array of dazzling accessories.
Bangkok's culinary scene is evolving with a growing number of zero-waste and eco-friendly eateries. Look for restaurants that prioritise organically sourced ingredients, minimise packaging, and offer plant-based options. Supporting these establishments contributes to a more sustainable food system. Additionally, many traditional dishes are rooted in sustainable practices, with sticky rice packed into and served in bamboo shoots, banana leaf-wrapped desserts, or coconut ice cream served in the very shell of the fruit.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
