Strategic Management of Low Carbon Travel in Longevity Tourism Evidence from Thailand [version 2; peer review: 2 approved]

The increase in longevity tourism, driven by an aging populace and wellness travel, raises environmental issues, notably carbon emissions from travel. Thailand is becoming a key destination for this type of tourism, necessitating strategic frameworks to integrate low-carbon travel methods into its management. This research intends to evaluate the carbon footprint of longevity tourism travel patterns in Thailand and provide strategic management solutions to encourage low-carbon travel and improve long-term health and well-being results. A mixed-method approach was used to gather primary data via structured questionnaires and travel activity logs from 450 longevity tourists in selected Thai destinations, along with secondary data on emission factors from national energy and tourism databases. Carbon footprint assessment was conducted using an LCA-based carbon footprint analysis. Descriptive statistics and One-Way ANOVA in IBM SPSS (version 28) analyzed emissions variations across transportation modes, accommodation types, dietary choices, and activity patterns. Thematic analysis on qualitative responses highlighted common behavioral patterns and perceptions related to low-carbon travel practices. According to the LCA-based carbon footprint analysis, transportation (347 kg CO2e per capita) and lodging (160 kg CO2e) had the highest emissions, compared to lifestyle choices (42.5 kg CO2e) and strategic awareness factors (50 kg CO2e). Significant emission disparities among different travel modes, housing types, food patterns, and awareness levels were confirmed by one-way ANOVA results (p < 0.01). Longevity tourism in Thailand is made more sustainable by intentional low-carbon planning and optimized infrastructure, while extended stays and energy-efficient lodgings lower emissions.