eco tourism industry australia

How Australia's tourism industry is leading the way in sustainability

Celeste Mitchell

Travel Journalist

16 February 2023

When it comes to scoring Australia’s sustainable report card, the travel and tourism industry has the opportunity to become a high achiever; let us explain.

Is it any wonder we’re yearning for the pure escapism of travel? The sobering realities of life in 2022 – from catastrophic floods to coral bleaching to the ongoing spectre of COVID-19 – are enough to send even diehard optimists scurrying for their suitcase. But when the act of escaping can also contribute to the very problems causing our hopelessness – particularly when it comes to the health of our planet – future-minded travellers are right to be asking: is travel in Australia sustainable? How does our country measure up?

Australia needs to do more to fight climate change

To be frank, in general, Australia needs to pull up its socks. The country’s embarrassing (lack of) progress on the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals saw it ranked dead last in an assessment of 60 countries for its policy response to the climate crisis. (And who can forget the dubious honour of winning the Colossal Fossil Award at COP26 in October 2021?) But when it comes to sustainability in travel specifically, Australia’s report card shows far more promise. In fact, the travel and tourism industry is shaping up as a key driver in the push for change.

As Tourism Australia’s head of sustainability, Penny Rafferty, puts it, the impetus for sustainability is baked right onto the very things the industry is built on. “The reasons people come here are our nature and wildlife. Our aquatic and coastal beauty. Our clean cities, and our incredible food and beverage scene, which is only made possible because we have clean air, water, soil, and vast, relatively unspoilt lands,” she explains.

It makes sense. Why be in the game of taking visitors to see the Great Barrier Reef, for example, if you’re not doing everything in your power to protect it?

Help protect the Great Barrier Reef. (Image: Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree)

Sustainability a core motivator for tourism operators

For many tourism operators ( especially ECO-certified operators ), sustainability has been the modus operandi from day one. For the rest of us, it may have taken a pandemic for us to recognise the impact of our jet-setting ways – brought home, no doubt, by images of Venice’s pristine waterways and Barcelona’s surreal crowd-free streets, transformed due to the sudden absence of the tens of thousands of tourists who’d usually flock to these cities on a daily basis. But it’s a positive side effect of COVID-19 we’re glad to be afflicted with, and one backed by data: research commissioned by Booking.com in the midst of the 2021 lockdowns found 61 per cent of travellers credit the pandemic for making them want to travel more sustainably in the future.

We’ve never had so much awareness and so much choice when it comes to voting with our tourism dollar. (Image: James Vodicka)

Sustainability needs to be about more than just the environment

Indeed, the pendulum has now swung so far that sustainable travel is ‘trendy’. Happily, clickbait headlines and earth-toned Instagram accounts are not the extent of the movement. The real changes are happening on the ground, and are being shaped by a fast-growing realisation that a truly sustainable travel industry can’t limit its focus to environmental concerns, but must also consider the sustainability of economies, communities and cultures.

Embark on an Indigenous-led tour of Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Examples that have earned big ticks on our report card include national parks being handed back to Traditional Owners, destinations receiving eco-certification , and companies heeding the call from their customers and seeking accreditation with organisations like Ecotourism Australia or B Corp. We’ve never had so much awareness and so much choice when it comes to voting with our tourism dollar.

Explore the Coffs Coast with Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tours. (Image: Destination NSW)

How to make your tourism dollars count

As you’d expect, those very dollars are also key drivers of industry change – attracting sustainable travellers means big bickies. The latest findings from Tourism Australia’s Consumer Demand Project showed sustainability was ‘very’ or ‘extremely’ important to almost 50 per cent of travellers when organising a holiday, and crucially, that travellers continue to seek experiences that are not only good for them, but good for people and places they love.

Now that the conversation around sustainability has moved from the ‘Why?’ to the ‘How?’, we’re planning our itineraries accordingly. We’re actively seeking out nature-based getaways and Indigenous led tourism experiences. We’ve realised the appeal of isolated, off-grid cabins and agritourism-style farm stays over cookie-cutter hotels. And we feel empowered to ask questions, and to expect sustainability to be part of any experience we’re considering.

Travellers have realised the appeal of isolated, off-grid cabins and agritourism-style farm stays over cookie-cutter hotels. (Image Source: @the.wandering.boys)

A holistic approach to sustainable travel

For Rafferty, the only (ahem) sustainable approach to sustainability is a holistic one. “What I ask operators… is, ‘How does a product or experience have incremental positive impact on the environment that it operates in, the community that it engages with… and the culture, or cultures in our case, that it represents?’ ”

This holistic viewpoint can also serve as a lens to place over all of our travel plans. How do we get there? Where do we stay? What do we do while we’re there? And how can we leave it better than we found it?

If we look at transport as the first step in the process, big providers such as Qantas have clear strategies and, as Rafferty puts it, “The airline has got some pretty audacious goals”.

Qantas moves towards net-zero emissions

With a commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, tackling single-use plastics was first in the firing line. In the past three years, Qantas has cleared more than 80 million single-use plastic items out of operation, but it will take about five more years to phase them out completely. More pressing are the momentous carbon emissions created by flying, especially when aviation is predicted to grow by up to 300 per cent by 2050.

It’s why Qantas has committed $50 million towards the development of Sustainable Fuels (SAF) in Australia, setting a target of 10 per cent SAF in fuel uptake by 2030, and about 60 per cent by 2050. Its flights from London have been using a blend of sustainable fuel since the start of the year but, domestically, Australians need to look at options beyond flying, where possible, or at least ensure we fly direct and offset, which could include taking advantage of reward programs such as Qantas’s Green Tier.

Getting around sustainably on the ground

On the ground, Australia’s long-distance rail options score a C minus at best, which means road trips have remained an attractive option when it comes to domestic travel. But drivers are starting to think about sustainability – astronomical petrol prices fuelling the conversation – with electric vehicle sales tripling in Australia in 2021.

It’s still in its infancy, but Gold Coast start-up Outbound is putting the focus on ‘shared mobility’, placing electric vehicles and e-bikes into hotels, which can be hired through its app. Its first Tesla is now available for guests at Mantra at Sharks in Southport to book for $30 an hour and co-founder and CEO Luke Rust says they plan to be in 10 more hotels by the end of the year.

This hourly hire concept has been embraced by both hotels and consumers. “People are realising… they need to use a car while they’re visiting somewhere rather than renting a car for two weeks and using it three times,” Rust says.

“There is this incredible collaboration between businesses and individuals who are driving sustainability in a very positive way,” Rafferty reflects. “There’s an understanding that we either all win or we all lose basically. And so collaboration is an absolute hallmark of travel as a force for good.”

When it comes to sustainability we either all win or we all lose. (Image: Michael Waterhouse Photography)

Sustainable accommodation options

In Australia, it’s our younger generations leading the charge when it comes to sleeping sustainably, with research by IHG Hotels finding the average young Aussie adult would be prepared to pay up to 34 per cent more for green accommodation. Catering to demand, its newest hotel brand, voco, is introducing a fleet of handcrafted bamboo bicycles for guests to use free of charge across five Australian and New Zealand locations.

Businesses are putting more stock into bikes, e-bikes, and electric vehicles for guests who wish to travel around the area. (Image: voco IHG Hotels)

Other hotel groups – large and small – are making similar moves to sex up sustainability efforts. After trialling the concept for a year, Ovolo converted all of the restaurants in its hotels across Australia to plant-based menus in February. The Ovolo team has even created a white paper to help out other companies looking to move to a vegetarian-led philosophy in the hope it will encourage more industry collaboration.

For Rafferty, what makes considered initiatives like these score an A plus is they don’t just make for better sustainability outcomes and a better future, but also for better travel. “Knowing that you are enjoying it, but your kids and grandkids are going to enjoy it too… isn’t that a richer experience?”

For more tips and advice visit our guilt-free guide to sustainable travel.

Freelance journalist, author and Life Unhurried co-founder, Celeste Mitchell, has managed to fuse her love of travel and storytelling for the past decade. While she’s crisscrossed the globe, she favours slow and sustainable travel, especially with her family by her side.

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24 August 2022

How responsible tourism contributes to a more sustainable visitor economy

An increasing number of tourists are looking for sustainable travel experiences.

More than 70% of travellers indicate they would make more effort to travel sustainably in the coming year. This is up 10% from 2021. (Source: booking.com, Sustainable Travel Report, 2022).

The national strategy for the visitor economy,  THRIVE 2030 , recognises the importance of sustainability to the long-term growth and resilience of Australian tourism.

Tourism Ministers from the 21 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member economies, including Australia, agreed to and released the “ Policy Recommendations for Tourism of the Future: Regenerative Tourism ”. This set of policy recommendations covers concrete actions for member economies to consider. Gathered under  the theme of APEC 2022  “Open. Connect. Balance.”, they envision the future of tourism as inclusive and sustainable.

What responsible tourism means

Responsible tourism is about ‘making better places for people to live in and better places for people to visit’ (Source: Cape Town Declaration, 2002).

It asks industry, government, local communities and tourists to work together to make tourism more sustainable by:

• respecting local cultures
• protecting the environment for future generations
• making tourism accessible to people with a disability
• providing socio-economic benefits to the host community
• providing meaningful connections between visitors and local people.

Contributing to a more sustainable tourism industry

There are many ways for destinations and visitors to make tourism more sustainable. These may include:

• providing carbon-neutral travel options like electric vehicles or bicycles
• using native ingredients, sourced locally and sustainably
• using biodegradable or recyclable packaging, or no packaging wherever possible
• providing training and employment opportunities for local people
• respectfully highlighting Indigenous cultures
• using local or minority-owned suppliers, including Indigenous suppliers
• engaging early and often with local communities about future tourism development
• managing visitor numbers at environmentally or culturally sensitive areas.

Making a promise to future generations

Some destinations are even asking tourists to commit to protecting the environment, native wildlife and host culture.

Tasmania’s Maria Island, for example, asks tourists to pledge to ‘keep it wild and pristine’:

I take this pledge to respect and protect the furred and feathered residents of Maria. I will remember you are wild and pledge to keep you this way.

I promise I will respectfully enjoy the wonders of your beautiful island home, from the wharf, to the Painted Cliffs, to the Rocky bluffs, haunted bays and mystery of Maria’s ruins.

Wombats, when you trundle past me I pledge I will not chase you with my selfie stick, or get too close to your babies. I will not surround you, or try and pick you up. I will make sure I don’t leave rubbish or food from my morning tea. I pledge to let you stay wild.

I vow to explore with a sense of responsibility, adventure and kindness. I will leave your wild island as I found it, and take home memories filled with beauty and my soul filled up with wonder.

Pledges such as this are an example of responsible tourism in action. They go beyond encouraging visitors to make their visit more sustainable, to empowering them to be responsible for their actions.

Achieving sustainable growth that balances social, environmental and economic factors is one of the guiding principles of THRIVE 2030 , the industry-led, government-enabled strategy for Australia’s visitor economy. 

Growing the visitor economy

THRIVE 2030 is Australia’s national strategy for the long-term, sustainable growth of the visitor economy.

Learn about THRIVE 2030

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Celebrating 35 years of tourism research australia.

For 35 years, Tourism Research Australia has worked with states and territories to generate data and intelligence on Australia’s visitor economy.

People with disability a valuable addition to the tourism workforce

Employing people with disability helps address shortages in the visitor economy workforce, develops skills and boosts the tourism industry.

Indigenous-owned businesses THRIVE in the visitor economy

Austrade encourages businesses in the visitor economy to work with Indigenous-owned enterprises. Read about some examples.

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Silky Oaks Lodge, Mossman, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Australia’s most eco-friendly destinations

Connection to nature and sustainable practices abound at some of our most eco-friendly destinations.

Carolyn Beasley

Eco-friendly travel is here stay. Responsible travel experiences can be found all across Australia, but there are some regions where sustainability is a way of life. Immerse yourself in nature and tread lightly on the planet at some of our favourite eco destinations. 

Mossman Gorge Centre, Daintree, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Eco-highlight: Australia’s first certified Eco Destination

Port Douglas in Tropical North Queensland is home to two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites – the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef . There are many sustainable experiences here, but don’t miss the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre . Along with protecting the rainforest and spectacular Mossman Gorge, the centre is a showcase of Kuku Yalanji culture. Join Ngadiku Dreamtime Walks, conducted by the local Indigenous people. You’ll visit culturally significant sites, trek over trickling rainforest streams and learn about traditional environmental protection practices.

Explore top thing to do in Port Douglas

Lord Howe Island, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Eco-highlight: Nature conservation over mass tourism

On Lord Howe Island , a two-hour flight from Sydney , 75 percent of the island’s vegetation remains intact and a marine park protects the diverse underwater life. The island is progressing towards Eco Destination certification and limits the number of visitors to 400 at one time to prevent overcrowding. The island is a haven for over 130 permanent and migratory bird species. Seabirds nest here in their hundreds of thousands, and this special bird bonanza is best experienced on a tour with respected nature guide Ian Hutton OAM.  

See more of Lord Howe Island

Glenarty Road, Margaret River, Western Australia © Emma Pegram

Eco-highlight: Certified Eco Destination with premium food and wine

A three-hour drive south of Perth , the Margaret River region has some of Australia’s most exquisite natural beaches and unique forests, as well as a thriving wine industry. Visit an integrated farm and winery at Glenarty Road  and stay for a long lunch beside the vibrant vegetable garden. If time permits, join the Forage on the Farm tour to discover how sheep, pigs, vegetables and wine grapes can co-exist without the use of pesticides and fertilisers. Plus, learn why the Fathoms Cuvee sparkling was aged underwater in the Southern Ocean.

Get a taste of Margaret River

Norfolk Island

Norfolk Island, External Territory © Tourism Australia

Eco-highlight: Iconic pine trees and sustainable practices

A remote volcanic outcrop just a 2.5-hour flight from Sydney or Brisbane , Norfolk Island rears up from the depths of the Pacific. Being a small island, it has introduced creative sustainable practices, like turning waste into reusable products. With no mammals or snakes, this is a place of birds, bucolic farmlands and quirky history. Visit the Botanic Gardens and Norfolk Island National Park to see the iconic Norfolk Pines, the Norfolk Island tree fern (the tallest on earth) and the pretty native hibiscus.

Discover the beauty of Norfolk Island

Lady Elliot Island

Lady Elliot Island, Southern Great Barrier Reef, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Eco-highlight: Island regeneration 

On the Southern Great Barrier Reef , Lady Elliot Island is a beacon of sustainable practices. The resort here helps revegetate the island, remove invasive species and runs entirely on renewable energy. The island is one of the best places in Australia to snorkel with manta rays, and for divers, there’s the chance to get involved with a citizen science conservation programme called Project Manta. Individual mantas can be identified by the unique markings on their undersides, and divers are encouraged to submit their photographs to help unlock the puzzle of the manta’s life.

Learn more about Lady Elliot Island

Exceptional Kangaroo Island, Kangaroo Island, South Australia © Tourism Australia

Eco-highlight: Wildlife haven on land and sea

Kangaroo Island , just 13km (8mi) off South Australia’s coastline, is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s famous for its abundant wildlife and its thriving eco-conscious food production scene , from pure Ligurian-bee honey to sustainably farmed oysters. Experience Kangaroo Island on a luxury full-day tour with Exceptional Kangaroo Island . Ethical, non-invasive wildlife viewing is the top priority, and you’ll gaze in wonder at wild koalas, kangaroos and rare Australian sea lions. Lunch is a private barbeque featuring some of Kangaroo Island’s favourite sustainable produce.

Read the guide to Kangaroo Island

Bruny Island Cruises, Bruny Island, Tasmania © Tourism Tasmania, Joe Shemesh

Eco-highlight: Marine tours and eco-friendly farming

With its breathtaking ocean cliffs and rustic farmland, Bruny Island in Tasmania is a southern hotspot for eco-friendly travel. Just a one-hour drive from Hobart , the island is home to marine experiences, organic food producers and all 12 of Tasmania’s endemic birds. Base yourself right in the heart of nature at the Earthcheck-recognised 43 Degrees apartments. This boutique accommodation is purpose built for sustainability and is powered entirely by solar. Connect to nearby hikes like the Fluted Cape walk and tour the dramatic coastline with Bruny Island Cruises .

Uncover more of Bruny Island

Help preserve the planet with these eco experiences

Scenic World, Blue Mountains, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Eco-highlight: Mountain immersion and nature experiences 

A short drive west of Sydney , the Blue Mountains offer rocky cliffs, canyons and forested valleys, crisp mountain air and soul-lifting hikes. Don’t miss the iconic (and Advanced Ecotourism certified)  Scenic World , where you can ride the world's steepest railway and hop on an aerial cable car to descend into Jamison Valley. For an added thrill, try Beyond Skyway, where you’ll harness up and climb onto the cable car roof, 270m (886ft) above the valley.

Find top activities in the Blue Mountains

Montalto, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria © Montalto

Eco highlights: Sustainable wining and dining

Outside Melbourne , the Mornington Peninsula is a foodie’s delight. If you follow the Wine Food Farmgate Trail , you’ll sample everything from farm-fresh strawberries to heirloom vegetables and gourmet pies. With a growing organic and biodynamic food and wine scene, the best way to taste your way through the region is with Mornington Peninsula Plunge Wine Tours . This luxurious, small group tour takes guests through organic wineries and an organic dairy and includes a locally sourced lunch with matching wines.

Check out the Mornington Peninsula

Freycinet Peninsula

Oyster Bay Tours, Freycinet Marine Farm, Tasmania © Tourism Australia

Eco highlight: Oyster farming in postcard-worthy scenery

Finding eco-friendly destinations in Tasmania is easy, and two and a half hours from Hobart is the unforgettable Freycinet Peninsula . The region is famous for its sustainable oyster industry, and with Oyster Bay Tours , you’ll be immersed in more ways than one. Don the waterproof wading pants and follow your guide out to the oyster racks, where you’ll discover the fascinating process of producing these juicy molluscs. Learn to shuck your own oysters direct from the pristine sea and slurp them down with a glass of local Riesling.

Explore the Freycinet Peninsula

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Sorting the chieftains from the charlatans.

Ecotourism is big business. But how do claims of sustainability in the tourism landscape actually stand up under scrutiny?

In early November, Murray River Trails was crowned winner in the Ecotourism category at the 2021 South Australian Tourism Awards, as it has been every year since environmental scientist Tony Sharley started the business in 2016. The four-day walk meanders upstream beside the Murray from the town of Renmark, but follows no formed tracks. Instead, guides pick their way along animal foot pads or faint paths tracing the river’s edge, with each trip’s course as ephemeral as the river’s flow. Accommodation is on a houseboat that follows guests along the river. When they leave, there is no sign they were ever there.

What is ecotourism? The environmental footprint is only one aspect of it. There needs to be a reason for people to visit a destination – a social, cultural or historical theme – and that reason needs to be communicated clearly, so they can take something away, and hopefully even give something back.

On the Murray River Walk, the theme is river stewardship, and guests learn the “life cycle” of Australia’s most famous river. Sharley says that after seeing the benefits to the natural environment of periodic high flows that break the banks and spill on to the floodplains, revitalising the river red gums and stimulating breeding for birds and fish, guests leave with a desire to take up advocacy for the waterway. “People develop [a sense of] ownership. If you don’t understand something you can’t care for it. That’s what ecotourism is.”

Of course, there’s a difference between a landscape getting a wash of green and a tour operator indulging in a bit of “greenwashing”. You could be forgiven for thinking there’s a government mandate on tacking the prefix “eco” to every cabin, retreat or resort. But step inside your room, you may find plastic water bottles, electricity sourced from a coal-fired grid, and more evidence that “eco” is more a pretence than a reality.

By that stage it’s too late; you’re already there. So how to sort the sustainability chieftains from the charlatans?

Ecotourism is big business. Booking.com’s 2021 Sustainable Travel Report reveals 83 per cent of travellers (from a global survey of 29,000 people) think sustainable travel is “vital” but only half think there are enough sustainable options available.

More than 70 per cent of survey respondents say they want “authentic experiences that are representative of the local culture”, while 84 per cent believe “increasing cultural understanding and preservation of cultural heritage is crucial ”. So it’s no surprise some operators might try to talk up what could be dubious environmental and sustainable credentials to capitalise on that demand.

“ Greenwashing is rife across tourism as corporate spin-doctors seek PR shortcuts to smooth over community demands for action,” says Lindsay Soutar, senior campaigner at Greenpeace Australia. She wants to see less talk and more “credible action” from the tourism industry to address climate impact, and says major hotel chains should be leading the way in reducing emissions. “Switching to 100 per cent renewable energy is a key test of the credibility of sustainability commitments.”

The problem in part comes down to scope. A business may be eco-friendly in some ways but lagging in others. Ecotourism Australia’s chairman Claire Ellis says she believes greenwashing is increasingly becoming an issue, but is not always malicious. “Holding the right values alone isn’t enough,” she says. “What’s hard for consumers is working out whether one thing an operator does well flows across all elements of the business. Often the operators don’t have the knowledge or expertise to work out how they could do things better.”

Certification schemes can help give that clarity to consumers. Ecotourism Australia certification assesses multiple factors, including energy, waste, water and carbon footprint, taking the guesswork out of making an informed choice.

“It takes operators months to go through our certification system, and technology keeps changing, so what was gold standard 15 years ago is not any more,” says Ellis. EarthCheck is another global benchmark for sustainability accreditation, particularly in the luxury hotel space, while Australian Wildlife Journeys gives credible endorsement to businesses offering sustainable, minimal-impact wildlife encounters. Ecotourism Australia’s Respecting Our Culture certification is awarded to enterprises that showcase local cultural values and heritage, while Climate Action certification recognises those taking significant steps to reduce their carbon emissions.

When wondering what is ecotourism, Ellis advises consumers to look for those that are proactive in telling their sustainability story. “The worst operators I think are the people who don’t tell you what they’re doing. If you’re going to say you’re eco-friendly then you need to be transparent and tell consumers where they can find out more about it.”

Some believe there’s a more cynical aspect to that apparent shyness; that some companies may be doing the opposite of greenwashing. Amanda Lambert from Green Getaways Australia, which collates selections of eco-friendly properties, says details of a hotel’s sustainability policy are sometimes “squirrelled away in the back section of their website”, even when the hotel is achieving high standards. She suspects some hotels that trade on luxury are afraid guests will associate “eco” or “green” with “doing without”. “We think tourism operators could do a lot more to communicate their positive actions to guests who are searching for it,” she says.

Lambert’s theory is somewhat reflected in Booking.com’s report, which showed that while 75 per cent of accommodation providers say they’ve implemented sustainability practices, only one-third actively communicates this to guests. Meanwhile 30 per cent of guests say they don’t know how to find sustainable accommodation options.

Even Sharley, his shelf cluttered with ecotourism awards, knows his company can always do better. Fossil fuels power the houseboat, but transitioning to electric engines is not yet feasible. Instead he’s fitting solar panels to the boat, so the noisy diesel generator can be retired. It’s about constant refinement. “I often ask myself, ‘What’s the difference between nature tourism and ecotourism?’. Essentially, asking what is ecotourism? Nature tourism is about ticking boxes: went to the Rock, went to the reef. Ecotourism has a level of interpretation that shows visitors you understand the ecology of a landscape. If I can’t explain to you what triggers breeding around here, or how this river system was formed, then it’s not eco-tourism. And you can’t greenwash that.”

More to the story

Four examples of Ecotourism Australia’s gold standard accreditation, known as Advanced Ecotourism, which is awarded to businesses that excel environmentally and socially by contributing positively to their local community.

Elysian Retreat Luxury villas on Long Island in the Whitsundays operating on 100 per cent solar power, offsetting 150 per cent of carbon emissions.

elysianretreat.com.au

True North Adventure Cruises Boutique, small-group expedition cruises around Western Australia’s Kimberley, Indonesia and West Papua; shallow-draft boats are designed to access remote wilderness, requiring no shore-based structures.

truenorth.com.au

Lady Elliot Resort This once degraded island offshore from Bundaberg is now restored to support fragile ecosystems within a coral cay sanctuary on the Great Barrier Reef.

ladyelliot.com.au

Diamond Waters Treehouse Retreat Two treehouses tread lightly in the forest of the NSW mid-north coast; 100 per cent solar powered with independent water supply and wastewater management system.

diamondwaters.com.au

Four operators that hold Ecotourism Australia’s Advanced Ecotourism, Respecting our Culture and Climate Action certification.

Mon Repos Turtle Centre Visit Bundaberg November to March to watch the largest gathering of nesting marine turtles in the world, playing your role in the ongoing conservation of the species.

parks.des.qld.gov.au

Eco Treasures Tours Sydney-based water guides offer paddleboard, kayak and snorkelling educational tours of the city’s northern beaches, waterways and surrounding national parks.

ecotreasures.com.au

Under Down Under Tours Tasmanian guided-tour company that matches your carbon offset donation dollar for dollar through the Carbon Neutral Charitable Fund. A stay at the four-star Thousand Lakes Lodge comes with free use of e-bikes.

underdownunder.com.au

Daintree River Cruise Centre Founded by conservationists in 1987 to cruise the rainforest-lined Daintree River, 100km north of Cairns; minimal ecological impact while supporting community and conservation projects.

daintreerivercruisecentre.com.au

ecotourism.org.au

In the know

Red flags for greenwashing:

No obvious certifications on the website. Look for accreditation logos and check they are endorsed by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. Ecotourism Australia also has a Green Travel Guide.

No proof of claims. It’s not good enough for a business simply to say it is sustainable or green. Management should be telling you how and why.

Misdirection. An operator may talk up one element of sustainability to draw attention away from its other environmental shortcomings. Don’t be fooled by green-sounding labels.

Lack of knowledge. Guides or hosts should be able to explain the local ecology, as well as the social and cultural fabric, and tell you how their operation fits within that.

Operators who provide plastic (or even bioplastic) straws or cups. That should be an obvious no-no by now.

This story was originally published in November 2021 and has since been updated. 

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• Skip to content
• Park management
• Ecotourism on parks

What is ecotourism?

Ecotourism encompasses nature-based activities that increase visitor appreciation and understanding of natural and cultural values. They are experiences that are managed to ensure they are ecologically, economically and socially sustainable, contributing to the wellbeing and conservation of the natural areas and local communities where they operate.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) defines ecotourism as the: environmentally responsible visiting of relatively unspoilt natural areas, in order to enjoy and appreciate nature (and any accompanying cultural features—both past and present), that promotes conservation, has low negative visitor impact, and provides for beneficially active socio-economic involvement of local populations.

Why is ecotourism important?

Tourism is a $23 billion industry for Queensland (Tourism and Events Queensland, May 2022), generating $46.5 million a day in overnight visitor expenditure across the state, directly and indirectly employing 207,000 Queenslanders.

Experiencing nature is a primary motivator for both domestic and international visitors in Australia. Queensland has a natural competitive advantage in providing visitors with high-quality ecotourism experiences because of our world-class national parks and marine parks, five World Heritage areas, and a huge diversity of unique and unrivalled landscapes and iconic wildlife.

Queensland’s national parks play a substantial role for ecotourism. Our commercial tour operators have a long history of accessing national parks and providing visitors with a wide array of ecotourism experiences.

What is happening to support ecotourism?

Sustainable ecotourism experiences are able to showcase Queensland’s special natural and cultural values while offering visitors and locals unique and memorable experiences in some of the state’s most spectacular areas.

The Queensland Government is committed to progressing new best-practice iconic ecotourism experiences to attract further growth in the domestic and international visitor market.

Ecotourism opportunities may include:

• commercial tourism operators that access Queensland’s protected area estate through Commercial Activity Permits and Commercial Activity Agreements
• the design, construction, ongoing operation and maintenance of low-impact eco-accommodation and other appropriate infrastructure within and adjacent to the protected area estate
• immersive experiences that support citizen science and voluntourism programs.

These Queensland Government initiatives will be fundamental to making Queensland the number one ecotourism destination in Australia, delivering world-class ecotourism attractions and experiences in Queensland’s national parks.

Why is certification required?

Importance of certification.

Positioning Queensland as a world leader in ecotourism requires excellence in product delivery, operations and services. Industry has indicated over many years that best-practice standards are essential in achieving this ambition.

Many ecotourism operators working within national parks and other protected areas are already certified and demonstrate a commitment to best-practice business operations and minimal impact on the natural environment. The requirement for all tourism operators authorised under long-term commercial activity agreements (agreements) to be certified by an endorsed organisation demonstrates the importance of these ambitions. It sends a strong message to the market that tourism operators in national parks are of high quality, employing best-practice, providing a competitive positioning for Queensland as a leading ecotourism destination.

Certification requirements for tour operators

All long-term agreement holders and ecotourism operators conducting their ecotourism experiences within the protected area estate must have commenced their certification process within 12 months of entering into an agreement and must finalise certification within 18 months of entering into an agreement. Certification must be maintained for the life of the agreement.

Information on the type of certification operators will need to achieve is provided below.

Endorsement of certification schemes

The department partners with independent certification providers who can demonstrate their scheme(s) possess the following  features:

• A set of best practices that effectively covers the nominated key areas (below).
• A requirement that tourism operators agree to adopt, comply with, and publicise the best practices.
• A process for monitoring and auditing compliance with the best practices and other requirements.
• A system to issue a certificate to demonstrate compliance with the best practices.
• A mechanism to investigate alleged non-compliance with the best practices and, if necessary, to withdraw certification.
• An appeals process for tourism operators.
• A process and timeframe for reviewing the set of best practices.
• A process to identify and address conflicts and potential conflicts of interest.
• The potential for long-term viability.

Key areas of best practice

Protection:

• Habitat protection
• Species conservation and interaction
• Waste minimisation and management
• Cultural heritage protection
• Good neighbour behaviour
• Environmental contingency arrangements

Presentation:

• Visitor information about natural and cultural values and world heritage status
• Delivery of visitor information
• Truth in marketing
• Client services and infrastructure

Partnership:

• Reporting suspected infringements, incidents and pollution
• Monitoring the protected areas and their use
• Supporting local and indigenous communities
• Training staff.

Department endorsed certification schemes

The department has endorsed the following certification providers:

Ecotourism Australia

Phone: (07) 3252 1530

Web:  https://www.ecotourism.org.au/

The department has endorsed the ‘Ecotourism’ and ‘Advanced Ecotourism’ certification levels of Ecotourism Australia’s ECO Certification Program. Operators must achieve a minimum of ‘Ecotourism’ level ecotourism certification under this scheme.

Ecotourism Australia has developed a  brochure outlining the key features of the ECO and Respecting Our Culture Certification essentials (PDF, 7MB) for tour operators. Additional information for tour operators on the features of the ECO Certification Program and how to apply is available on  Ecotourism Australia’s website .

Phone: (07) 3238 1900

Web:  https://earthcheck.org

The department has endorsed the EarthCheck  Evaluate and  Certified ecotourism certification schemes .

EarthCheck is the world’s leading scientific benchmarking certification and advisory group for the travel and tourism industry. These programs help tourism operators to measure and manage their environmental footprint, and to provide clear, auditable evidence of sustainable practices, and are being further developed with criteria and auditing requirements specific to operations within Queensland’s national parks.

Additional information for tour operators is available on the  EarthCheck website .

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Contribute to the important work being done to protect and grow Queensland’s protected area system.

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• Travel Destinations
• Australia & South Pacific

What Is Ecotourism In Australia?

Published: November 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Inga Mcclendon

• Plan Your Trip
• Sustainability

Introduction

Ecotourism is a thriving industry that combines the joy of travel with a commitment to environmental conservation. In recent years, it has gained significant popularity as people become more conscious of their impact on the planet. Australia, with its stunning natural landscapes and diverse wildlife, is a prime destination for ecotourism.

Ecotourism is defined as responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local population, and involves meaningful interactions with the local culture. It aims to educate visitors about the importance of protecting the environment while providing them with memorable and immersive experiences.

Australia is known for its breathtaking beauty, from the vast Outback to the Great Barrier Reef, ancient rainforests, and unique wildlife. As a continent with a rich and fragile ecosystem, ecotourism plays a crucial role in preserving Australia’s natural treasures. It allows visitors to connect with nature on a deeper level while supporting local communities and conservation efforts.

With its commitment to sustainable practices and conservation, Australia has positioned itself as a leader in the field of ecotourism. From remote wilderness lodges to community-based eco-friendly tours, the country offers a wide range of options for travelers seeking eco-conscious experiences.

Moreover, Australia’s government and various organizations have implemented policies and certifications to ensure that tourism activities are conducted in an environmentally responsible manner. The EcoCertification program, for example, helps travelers identify and support tourism providers that adhere to sustainable practices.

In this article, we will explore the importance of ecotourism in Australia, the various practices adopted in the country, popular ecotourism destinations, and the benefits and challenges faced by the industry. Let’s dive into this enlightening journey that combines adventure, education, and environmental stewardship in the land Down Under.

Definition of Ecotourism

Ecotourism is a form of tourism that focuses on responsible travel to natural areas while promoting conservation and sustainable practices. It goes beyond mere sightseeing and seeks to create a positive impact on the environment, local communities, and culture. The International Ecotourism Society defines ecotourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education.”

There are several key principles that define ecotourism. These include:

• Conservation: Ecotourism aims to promote the conservation of natural areas, ecosystems, and biodiversity. It supports the protection of fragile environments through sustainable practices and responsible behavior by visitors and tour operators.
• Sustainability: Ecotourism prioritizes long-term sustainability by minimizing negative environmental, social, and cultural impacts. It aims to leave a minimal footprint and contribute to the well-being of local communities, both economically and socially.
• Educational Value: Ecotourism seeks to educate visitors about the importance of conservation, biodiversity, and sustainable practices. It provides opportunities for learning through interpretive programs, guided tours, and interactions with local communities.
• Community Involvement: Ecotourism encourages meaningful interactions between travelers and local communities. It promotes respect for local cultures, traditions, and customs, while also providing economic benefits through employment opportunities and support for local businesses.
• Ethical Wildlife Encounters: Ecotourism places a strong emphasis on responsible wildlife viewing. It promotes activities that do not harm or disturb the natural behavior of animals and supports initiatives that contribute to the protection and conservation of endangered species.

Overall, ecotourism strives to create a positive and sustainable relationship between tourism and the natural environment. It aims to provide travelers with immersive experiences while fostering a sense of stewardship and appreciation for the Earth’s natural wonders. By choosing ecotourism, travelers can contribute to the conservation of fragile ecosystems, support local communities, and gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between nature and human interaction.

Importance of Ecotourism in Australia

Ecotourism plays a vital role in Australia for a multitude of reasons, making it an essential and valuable aspect of the country’s tourism industry. Here are some key reasons why ecotourism is important in Australia:

• Conservation and Preservation: Australia is home to unique and diverse ecosystems, including the Great Barrier Reef, the rainforests of Queensland, the outback, and the vast array of native wildlife. Ecotourism helps raise awareness about the importance of conserving these natural habitats, promoting practices that minimize negative impacts and preserve the country’s natural heritage for future generations.
• Environmental Education: Ecotourism provides visitors with educational opportunities to learn about Australia’s delicate ecosystems, local flora and fauna, and the impact of human activities on the environment. By experiencing nature firsthand and engaging with knowledgeable guides, travelers gain a deeper understanding of ecological issues and are inspired to become advocates for conservation even after their trip.
• Sustainable Development: Ecotourism in Australia often focuses on supporting local communities and small businesses, promoting economic development in remote areas. By providing employment opportunities and encouraging the use of local resources, ecotourism helps to diversify local economies and reduce dependence on environmentally harmful industries.
• Preserving Indigenous Culture: Australia has a rich indigenous heritage, and many ecotourism experiences include interactions with local indigenous communities. These experiences not only provide economic benefits but also help preserve and promote indigenous traditions, knowledge, and cultural practices.
• Conservation Funding: Ecotourism generates revenue that can be used for conservation efforts, such as habitat restoration, research, and wildlife conservation projects. Funds generated from entrance fees or tours to protected areas directly contribute to the preservation and management of these important natural sites.
• Positive Visitor Experiences: Ecotourism offers travelers authentic and immersive experiences in Australia’s unique natural environments. Whether it’s snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, hiking through ancient rainforests, or observing native wildlife, ecotourism allows visitors to connect with nature in a meaningful way, leaving them with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the beauty and fragility of Australia’s ecosystems.

Overall, ecotourism in Australia not only supports environmental conservation and sustainable development but also provides a platform for education, cultural preservation, and unique visitor experiences. It is a win-win situation, as travelers have the opportunity to explore Australia’s incredible natural wonders while contributing to the protection and preservation of its fragile ecosystems.

Ecotourism Practices in Australia

Australia has embraced sustainable practices in its ecotourism industry, offering a range of experiences that prioritize conservation, community involvement, and education. Here are some of the key ecotourism practices in Australia:

• Conservation-focused Accommodation: Many eco-lodges and resorts in Australia have implemented sustainable practices such as water and energy conservation, waste management, and the use of eco-friendly materials. These accommodations provide a comfortable stay while minimizing their environmental footprint.
• Guided Interpretive Tours: Guided tours with knowledgeable guides provide visitors with educational insights into the local ecology, wildlife, and conservation efforts. These tours promote understanding, appreciation, and respect for the environment.
• Indigenous Experiences: Australia has a rich indigenous culture, and ecotourism often supports and collaborates with local indigenous communities. Visitors can participate in cultural experiences, such as traditional storytelling, bush tucker tours, and guided walks, learning about indigenous connections to the land.
• Wildlife Conservation: Australia is renowned for its unique wildlife, and ecotourism practices prioritize the well-being and conservation of these species. Tours and wildlife encounters are conducted responsibly, ensuring minimal disturbance to animals and their habitats.
• Community Involvement: Community-based tourism initiatives in Australia involve local communities in the planning, operation, and financial benefits of ecotourism. This fosters cultural preservation, supports local economies, and encourages sustainable development.
• Low-Impact Activities: Ecotourism activities in Australia emphasize low-impact practices, such as hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and observing wildlife from a distance. These activities minimize disturbance to ecosystems and wildlife.
• Sustainable Transportation: Ecotourism operators in Australia promote sustainable transportation options, such as using hybrid or electric vehicles, encouraging public transportation, or organizing shared transportation for group tours.
• Supporting Conservation Organizations: Many ecotourism organizations in Australia collaborate with local conservation groups and national parks to support ongoing research, restoration efforts, and conservation projects.
• Responsible Waste Management: Eco-friendly practices, such as recycling, reducing single-use plastic, and proper waste disposal, are implemented by ecotourism operators to minimize the environmental impact of their activities.
• Carbon Offset Programs: Some ecotourism operators in Australia offer carbon offset programs, allowing travelers to contribute to conservation initiatives or invest in renewable energy projects to offset the carbon emissions associated with their travel.

These ecotourism practices in Australia ensure that visitors have memorable and impactful experiences while contributing to the conservation of the country’s remarkable natural heritage.

Popular Ecotourism Destinations in Australia

Australia is blessed with an abundance of stunning natural landscapes and unique biodiversity, making it a paradise for ecotourism enthusiasts. Here are some of the popular ecotourism destinations in Australia:

• The Great Barrier Reef: The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It offers unparalleled opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing, allowing visitors to explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter diverse marine life.
• Kakadu National Park: Located in the Northern Territory, Kakadu National Park showcases the cultural and natural treasures of Australia’s Top End. Visitors can witness ancient rock art, take wildlife cruises on billabongs, and immerse themselves in the diverse habitats of wetlands, woodlands, and rugged escarpments.
• Tasmanian Wilderness: The Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area is a remote and pristine region known for its rugged mountains, ancient rainforests, and unique wildlife. It offers opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting, including the elusive Tasmanian devils and the endangered Tasmanian wedge-tailed eagles.
• Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: Home to the iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), this sacred Aboriginal site in the heart of Australia’s Red Centre offers visitors an opportunity to learn about indigenous culture, witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the massive rock formations, and explore the unique desert ecosystem.
• Daintree Rainforest: Located in Queensland, the Daintree Rainforest is one of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world. Visitors can take guided walks through the lush jungle, go on river cruises to spot crocodiles, and learn about the diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species.
• Freycinet National Park: Situated on Tasmania’s east coast, Freycinet National Park offers pristine white-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and iconic granite peaks, including the famous Wineglass Bay. Visitors can hike to incredible lookout points, spot wildlife, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.
• Kangaroo Island: Known as Australia’s Galapagos, Kangaroo Island is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to a diverse range of native animals, including kangaroos, koalas, sea lions, and a variety of bird species. Ecotourism activities include wildlife tours, coastal walks, and exploring natural wonders such as Flinders Chase National Park and Seal Bay Conservation Park.
• Blue Mountains National Park: Located near Sydney, the Blue Mountains National Park is known for its dramatic landscapes, deep valleys, and towering sandstone cliffs. Visitors can enjoy bushwalking trails, breathtaking viewpoints, and encounters with unique wildlife, including the elusive platypus and the iconic kangaroo.
• Ningaloo Reef: Situated off the Western Australian coast, Ningaloo Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers incredible opportunities for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can swim with whale sharks, manta rays, and an abundance of colorful fish, all while experiencing the untouched beauty of the reef.
• Gippsland Lakes: Located in Victoria, the Gippsland Lakes are Australia’s largest inland waterway system. This pristine region offers opportunities for kayaking, birdwatching, and exploring the diverse ecosystems of lakes, rivers, and wetlands. It is also home to unique flora and fauna, including playful dolphins and rare bird species.

These popular ecotourism destinations in Australia showcase the country’s natural beauty, unique wildlife, and indigenous heritage, offering visitors unforgettable experiences while promoting sustainable practices and conservation.

Benefits and Challenges of Ecotourism in Australia

Ecotourism in Australia offers a range of benefits, both for the environment and local communities, while also facing certain challenges. Let’s explore the benefits and challenges of ecotourism in Australia:

• Environmental Conservation: One of the significant benefits of ecotourism is its contribution to the conservation of Australia’s unique ecosystems. By promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness about environmental issues, ecotourism helps protect fragile habitats, preserves biodiversity, and supports conservation efforts.
• Economic Opportunities: Ecotourism provides significant economic benefits to local communities, especially in remote and rural areas. It generates employment opportunities, supports local businesses, and diversifies the economy beyond traditional industries. This can help alleviate poverty, reduce outmigration, and contribute to the overall development of local communities.
• Cultural Preservation: Ecotourism in Australia often involves interactions with indigenous communities, promoting cultural preservation and fostering pride in traditional practices. By supporting indigenous tourism initiatives, ecotourism helps preserve ancient customs, knowledge, and cultural heritage.
• Education and Awareness: Ecotourism provides educational opportunities for travelers, enabling them to learn about local ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation efforts. It fosters a greater understanding of the importance of environmental stewardship and encourages visitors to make sustainable choices even after their trip.
• Promotion of Sustainable Practices: Through eco-certifications and sustainable operational practices, the ecotourism industry in Australia sets a positive example for other sectors. It promotes the adoption of sustainable practices, such as waste reduction, energy conservation, and responsible transportation, leading to a more environmentally conscious society.

While ecotourism in Australia brings numerous benefits, it also faces several challenges:

• Overcrowding and Impact: Popular ecotourism destinations in Australia can sometimes face issues of overcrowding, resulting in negative impacts on the environment, including increased pollution, habitat degradation, and disturbance to wildlife. Proper management and visitor limits are essential to mitigate these challenges.
• Climate Change: Climate change poses significant challenges to ecotourism in Australia. Rising temperatures, changing weather patterns, and coral bleaching in the Great Barrier Reef threaten the very attractions that draw visitors. Adaptation and mitigation efforts are crucial for the long-term sustainability of ecotourism in the face of climate change.
• Balancing Conservation and Visitor Experience: Finding the balance between providing memorable visitor experiences and protecting fragile ecosystems can be a challenge. It requires careful planning, responsible visitor behavior, and ongoing monitoring to minimize negative impacts on the environment while still offering enjoyable and educational experiences.
• Respecting Indigenous Rights: Collaborating with indigenous communities in ecotourism initiatives requires a deep respect for their rights, cultures, and traditions. Proper consultation, equitable partnerships, and fair revenue distribution are necessary to ensure indigenous communities benefit genuinely from ecotourism activities.
• Access and Infrastructure: Some ecotourism destinations in Australia may face challenges related to limited access, inadequate transportation, and a lack of infrastructure such as visitor centers, waste management facilities, and sustainable accommodation options. Investing in appropriate infrastructure is essential to support the growth and sustainability of ecotourism.

Despite these challenges, the benefits of ecotourism outweigh the drawbacks, and with proper management and collaboration, Australia can continue to be a world leader in sustainable and responsible tourism.

Ecotourism in Australia is a powerful force that combines travel, environmental conservation, and sustainable practices. With its stunning natural landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and unique wildlife, Australia offers unparalleled opportunities for eco-conscious travelers to explore and connect with nature.

The importance of ecotourism in Australia cannot be understated. It plays a crucial role in conserving the environment, promoting sustainable development, supporting local communities, and raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity and cultural heritage. By choosing ecotourism experiences, travelers contribute directly to the protection of fragile ecosystems, help preserve indigenous traditions, and make a positive impact on the environment.

Australia’s commitment to sustainable practices in the ecotourism industry is evident in the various initiatives, certifications, and policies that are in place. These include conservation-focused accommodations, guided interpretive tours, community involvement, and wildlife conservation efforts. By implementing these practices, Australia sets a precedent for other countries and promotes the adoption of sustainable tourism practices worldwide.

While there are challenges to overcome, such as managing overcrowding, adapting to climate change, and balancing conservation with visitor experience, the benefits of ecotourism in Australia far outweigh the drawbacks. The industry provides economic opportunities, educates visitors about the environment, and fosters cultural preservation. It also encourages sustainable practices, promotes conservation funding, and creates memorable experiences for travelers.

In conclusion, ecotourism in Australia offers a unique and rewarding way to explore the country’s natural wonders while actively participating in conservation efforts. By embracing sustainable practices, respecting indigenous culture, and being responsible travelers, we can ensure that future generations continue to enjoy the beauty and richness of Australia’s ecosystems. Let us embrace the spirit of ecotourism and embark on a journey of exploration, education, and environmental stewardship in the remarkable land Down Under.

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Enjoy them while you can? The ecotourism challenge facing Australia’s favourite islands

Senior Lecturer in Tourism Management, University of South Australia

Disclosure statement

Freya Higgins-Desbiolles is an ordinary member of Kangaroo Island Eco-Action, a non-government organisation supporting environmental conservation on Kangaroo Island.

University of South Australia provides funding as a member of The Conversation AU.

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I fell for Kangaroo Island from my first visit. I recall standing on a headland on the island’s southern coast, near Remarkable Rocks (a popular tourist site), and being awestruck by the Southern Ocean.

The island (Australia’s third-largest after Tasmania and Melville Island) is one of 16 designated National Landscapes and arguably South Australia’s greatest tourism treasure. Its protected areas (notably Flinders Chase National Park) are home to rare and endangered marsupials and birds.

A year ago, in Australia’s “Black Summer”, bushfires ravaged more than half the island (about 211,000 hectares). Those fires underscored the threat to this and other iconic island destinations.

Both directly and indirectly, humans are endangering these fragile ecosystems through unsustainable development and human-caused climate change.

The most ironic threat is from unsustainable tourism. These islands attract millions of visitors a year keen to experience their natural wonders. Yet often this very “ecotourism” is contributing to their degradation.

How to do better?

Last October I took part in a workshop at which Kangaroo Island’s tourism operators discussed how to do so. 2020 was a difficult year for them, first with the fires, then with the COVID-19 pandemic. But in that adversity they also saw the opportunity to reset “business as usual” and come back better, creating an industry not harming its core asset.

Read more: The end of global travel as we know it: an opportunity for sustainable tourism

A range of ideas came out of our talks applicable to all our island destinations. But there was one key point. Ecotourism should be more than fleeting feel-good experiences. It should not be a “value extraction” but a “values education”, inspiring visitors to go home and live more eco-consciously.

Macquarie island

The paradox of ecotourism is perhaps best exemplified by Australia’s least visited island destination – Macquarie Island, about 1,500 km south-east of Hobart, halfway between New Zealand and the Antarctica.

Just 1,500 tourists a year, rather than hundreds of thousands, are permitted by the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service to visit. The island has no hotels, restaurants or souvenir shops. The only buildings are those of the Macquarie Island Station research base and a few isolated field huts for scientists.

Tourists must be content with coming ashore for the day from the 18 small cruise ships that ply these waters in summer. The only hospitality is the traditional station offering of tea and scones .

But what tourists do get is a unique experience. Macquarie is World Heritage listed as the only island made entirely from the earth’s mantle. It also teems with wildlife – multiple species of penguins and seals in their tens of thousands, and birds in their millions.

It’s about as pure an ecotourism experience you can have (if you can afford it). Even so, it still takes resources to get there, including the burning of fossil fuels, contributing to the global warming that is the greatest threat to the environmental integrity of Macquarie Island (and other island ecosystems).

However, the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service does at least expect cruise ship operators to “demonstrate their capacity to deliver desirable outcomes” on criteria including minimisation of environmental impacts and communicating to tourists “messages about the natural and cultural values of the island”, including the role they play in its preservation.

Read more: From Kangaroo Island to the Great Barrier Reef, the paradox that is luxury ecotourism

K'gari (Fraser island)

Communicating such messages is something that certainly needs improvement on another World Heritage listed island – K'gari (commonly known as Fraser island), the world’s largest sand island.

About 250 km north of Brisbane, at the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef, the island draws many hundreds of thousands of visitors a year to its beaches, woodlands and rainforests. (There are no recent public statistics on island visitor numbers but in 2017-18 the Fraser Coast region attracted 1,515,000 visitors.)

Once the island’s resources were mined and logged. Tourism was meant to be much less exploitative. But a range of organisations including the International Union for Conservation of Nature have highlighted the pressure tourist numbers (along with their vehicles and infrastructure) are placing on K'gari’s landscapes and wildlife.

Communicating to all those visitors the role they play in the island’s preservation appears to be failing. The bushfires that burnt half the island (about 165,500 hectares) over nine weeks between October and December last year allegedly resulted from an illegal camp fire .

Headline-grabbing attacks by the island’s residents dingos – such as in April 2019 when a toddler was dragged from a campervan – have also been credited to rampant irresponsible tourist behaviour (feeding dingoes to get better photos, for example).

Indigenous elders, conservationists and scientists have all pointed to the problem of a mass-tourism model that doesn’t put enough emphasis on educating visitors about the environment and their responsibilities.

Read more: The K'gari-Fraser Island bushfire is causing catastrophic damage. What can we expect when it's all over?

Rottnest Island

One of our proposals for Kangaroo Island is to reduce the impact of motor vehicles through encouraging more extended walking and cycling experiences.

The value of sustainable transport as the foundation for ecotourism is demonstrated by Rottnest Island, 20 km off the coast of Perth.

The entire island is managed as an A-Class Nature Reserve. Apart from service vehicles and shuttle buses, it is car-free . You can hire a bike or bring your own to get around the island (11 km long and 4.5 km wide). Or simply walk.

The absence of traffic makes a Rottnest holiday a distinctly more relaxed experience. It’s a fair example of slow tourism ; and, of course, it is also good for the island’s world famous quokkas , which co-exist with close to 800,000 visitors a year .

Read more: Before and after: 4 new graphics show the recovery from last summer's bushfire devastation

Before they are gone

Given a little space, nature is resilient.

After Kangaroo Island’s bushfires a year ago, for example, it was feared a number of endangered species had finally been driven to extinction.

But in two of 2020’s few good news stories, scientists found critically endangered Kangaroo Island dunnarts and little pygmy possums – the world’s smallest marsupial – had survived.

But we can’t take that resilience for granted if we keep putting pressure on these fragile ecosystems. We need a better approach to ensure ecotourism isn’t about enjoying these natural wonders before they are gone.

• Kangaroo Island
• Macquarie Island
• Pygmy possum
• Kangaroo Island dunnart

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A Brief History of Ecotourism Australia

Ecotourism Australia was formed in 1991 as the Ecotourism Association of the Indo Pacific Region. The organisation was renamed the Ecotourism Association of Australia in 1992 and the world's first National Ecotourism Accreditation Program (NEAP) was launched in 1996. In 2002, the International Year of Ecotourism, the organisation was renamed Ecotourism Australia Limited (EA).

EA was established to promote ecotourism throughout Australia and its immediate region by creating partnerships, developing and encouraging quality ecotourism experiences and providing the industry with a clear voice. The organisation's main product development tools were the creation of certification programs that defined ecotourism and the delivery of the Annual Ecotourism Australia Conference (later renamed the Global Eco Conference).

Since the launch of the NEAP, EA has grown and evolved to offer policy commitments and lobbying, industry and academic representation on the EA board, and a website platform to promote operators, membership networking and international travel trade awareness.

EA now delivers four certification programs to the tourism industry:

• ECO certification (replaced NEAP in 2003)
• Climate Action (launched in 2008)
• Respecting Our Culture (transferred from Aboriginal Tourism Australia in 2008)
• EcoGuide certification (launched in 2000)
• ECO Destination Certification (launched in 2018)

EA won the Conservation Award at the World Tourism and Travel Council Tourism for Tomorrow Awards in 2008.

In 2011, on the organisation's 20 th  birthday, EA awarded 56 operators Green Travel Leader status for their commitment to greening the tourism industry by maintaining ECO certification for 10 years or more. Since this time, EA has recognised more operators as Green Travel Leaders and the certification programs have continued to gain national and worldwide recognition through the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.

In 2013/14 the combined annual turnover of all EA certified tour operators exceeded $1billion, demonstrating how ecotourism is no longer a niche but has become the mainstream.

"Over the past twenty years Ecotourism Australia has grown from a small group of environmental tourism enthusiasts, to the world's most respected industry organisation in ecotourism. This has come about through the hard work of a range of people over a long period during which time we have established the benchmarks for the industry globally."

Professor Ross Dowling - Ecotourism Australia Limited Founding Member

"Twenty years ago, when Ecotourism Australia was first established, only some tourism operators recognised that providing quality interpretation and operating sustainably were important for the success of our industry. Ecotourism was first seen as trendy, only for small operators, but the Ecotourism conference in Port Douglas in 1993 identified that the same principles for nature based tourism apply to both small and large operators. Ecotourism Australia grasped the lead in extending this message across the tourism industry, and developed and operated the certification platform that has provided the tools to assist tourism operators achieve their sustainability objectives. This has been an important factor in establishing the quality nature based tourism industry we know today."

Max Shepard, Managing Director, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway 

How tourist operators in Far North Queensland are fighting for survival after series of disasters

For three months, Julian and Jackie Pagani have been burning hundreds of litres of fuel a day to power a campsite no-one can visit.

Usually their camping ground at Cape Tribulation, nestled between World Heritage-listed rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, swells with visitors this time of year.

But since Cyclone Jasper and a subsequent flooding event wreaked havoc on Far North Queensland last December, no-one has been able to get into the remote coastal village.

There's only one road into Cape Tribulation, and it's impassable.

"We haven't had any tourist trade since the cyclone so we are three months in with no income, no trade," Ms Pagani said.

"We don't know where to go from here, we don't know when we can reopen the doors, we don't know what to tell our staff, we don't know what to tell the bank."

Cape Tribulation has no mains power so for the Paganis, powering the campground is an expense that doesn't stop — even if the tourists do.

"[The diesel generator is] burning hundreds of litres of fuel a day because we have to keep everything on, including our sewage treatment plant," Mr Pagani said.

"After three months, it's a lot of money without an income."

Other tourism operators in the close-knit rainforest community are also doing it tough. The hotel rooms are vacant and cafes are empty, leaving businesses in the region teetering on the edge of financial ruin.

Ms Pagani puts it plainly: "Without tourists, we don't have Cape Tribulation."

"It won't exist if we don't open to tourists, there's no other way to make an income here, all other residents work in tourism."

A 'horrific start' to the tourism year

It's been three months since Cyclone Jasper and a subsequent flooding event wreaked havoc on Far North Queensland — the jewel in Australia's tourism crown.

About $280 million has been lost in cancelled bookings across the region between December and January and hotel occupancy rates remain as low as 30 per cent in some areas.

"We've had an horrific start to the year," Queensland's Tourism Minister Michael Healy conceded.

About 400,000 tourists normally visit the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation, located about a three-hour drive north of Cairns, each year.

The region recorded almost 3 metres of rain after Jasper crossed the coast near Cape Tribulation and the deluge caused a 56-metre landslide that effectively severed the rainforest village from the rest of the state.

Locals band together

Despite the devastation, Ms Pagani said local businesses had joined forces to help her pull off the couple's wedding on New Year's Eve at their isolated campground – the only business the town has seen in three months

About 170 family and friends were ferried in on a commercial reef tourism boat, cutlery and dinnerware was borrowed from nearby resorts, and food and drinks purchased from local businesses.

"We had planned our wedding a long time ago and we weren't going to let the cyclone stop us," Ms Pagani said.

Lawrence Mason, who runs a café and shop at Cape Tribulation, supplied alcohol, soft drinks and water for the wedding.

"We've been closed for more than 90 days so it was wonderful to see locals supporting other locals at such a difficult time," he said.

Empty rooms and water woes

Even parts of Far North Queensland that are accessible to visitors are still feeling the pain months after the cyclone.

Bryce and Lee Tozer, who manage the Cayman Villas resort in Port Douglas — a destination favoured by US presidents and singers Kylie Minogue and Ed Sheeran — said their occupancy rates were "significantly down" this Easter.

"I've spoken to many people around town and we all have similar stories, the phones aren't running hot, " Mr Bryce said.

"We need to get the message out, especially to people in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane that we are here and open, the reef is here, all the resorts are open for business, all sitting here and waiting for you to come."

Mr Tozer said publicity surrounding the town's water woes — Port Douglas is on level-four water restrictions as a result of flooding damage to treatment plants — had also impacted visitor numbers.

There have been several instances where the town has been left without water at short notice, forcing some tourists to bucket pool water to flush their toilets.

Local mayor Michael Kerr said council was working through the water issues and restoring road access to Cape Tribulation with the help of the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

"It's important to remember we are still open for business. The bars, cafes, restaurants, the reef tours, they are all open and if you love the tropics, please come and see us," Mr Kerr said.

He said the council hoped to open the road into Cape Tribulation by Easter, but it would be weather-dependent.

Millions poured into lure visitors back

Both the Queensland and federal governments have poured millions of dollars into advertising campaigns, discounted flights and holiday vouchers in a bid to entice visitors back to Far North Queensland.

In Cairns and Port Douglas, occupancy rates this Easter period have been about half of what they were last year, Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ) figures show.

Mr Healy said in addition to the cyclone, flooding and road closures, there were other factors that had also contributed to the region's poor tourist numbers.

"Fundamentally, this comes down to access, and if we're looking at aviation into the region, and the prices are high, that is a big deterrent," he said.

"Eighty-seven per cent of our tourists get off at the [Cairns] airport so pricing, especially around that holiday period, is very important."

However, a sprinkling of international tourists have found their way to the region despite the hurdles.

English visitor Paul Oakley said he and his wife were aware of the natural disasters but chose to forge ahead with their journey and hadn't been disappointed.

"If you're helping out the tourism here, it's a really good thing and we are pleased that we did come," Mr Oakley said.

"We had expectations about what Australia would be like and it has more than exceeded those. Queensland in particular is beautiful. We have had trips to the Great Barrier Reef and it has just been wonderful."

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Off-grid Cyprus: luxury yurt retreat shows off another side to the island

A hillside eco-retreat makes a great base for connecting with nature and exploring the coast and mountains around Paphos

‘T his whole project started as an experiment,” says Pawel Sidorski, who swapped his life in the European hotel industry to pursue his vision of sustainable luxury, opening Yurts in Cyprus , near Paphos in west Cyprus, in 2013. “I wanted to pioneer an off-grid lifestyle and create a place for people to connect with nature without sacrificing comfort,” he says.

Pawel’s three handmade Mongolian yurts and log cabin, tucked away in 2.5 acres on a hill overlooking the Stavros tis Psokas valley, offer just that. We stayed in the spacious Qadan (meaning “cliff” in Mongolian), which sits on the edge of the property – hammock, table and chairs ready for sundowners or stargazing. Inside, there’s a super-comfy wrought iron double bed, rugs, stove, coffee-making kit, Bluetooth speaker and wifi – you name your creature comfort and the attentive Pawel has thought of it.

The other two yurts, as well as Koliba, the newly built cabin, are family-friendly. Set several metres apart to afford privacy, all have outside showers and compostable loos that use a combination of sawdust and bokashi to dispose of waste. There is also one conventional loo for “those who want to try being closer to nature,” says Pawel, “but don’t want to compromise their comfort in the name of water conservation and keeping the aquifer clean!”

Reached by a long gravel track, Pawel’s eco-retreat is the last inhabited property before entering the forested Troodos mountains 2km to the east. It feels blissfully remote, but the tiny village of Simou is nearby and it is only a 20-minute drive to the small port of Polis Chrysochou and Latchi fishing village. You can take a boat trip from here, some glass-bottomed and offering dips in the celebrated Blue Lagoon, or go for a swim on the beach before a blowout fish meze at Y&P Fish Tavern , part of the Latchi Hotel.

Pawel himself lives in the welcoming Straw House, home also to four cats and Shuki, a 10-year-old pointer cross rescue dog. “His name comes from śukravāsaraḥ , meaning Friday in Sanskrit,” says Pawel, “the day our paths crossed at the local dog shelter.” Pawel will provide guests with a GPS for self-guided hikes or bike rides, but many prefer Shuki as a guide. “He’s well known for accompanying guests,” says Pawel, who hosts yoga and pilates sessions in the pavilion beneath the house and advises on local rock-climbing, water sports and horse riding. For the latter, George’s Ranch offers riding for all levels, but experienced riders can take a 90-minute sunset hack across the clifftops and sandy beaches of the Sea Caves natural caverns, stopping at Agios Georgios, a small, natural harbour in the Akamas Peninsula National Park, home to gorges, hiking trails and stunning bays, including the Blue Lagoon.

Back at the Straw House, breakfast in Pawel’s kitchen includes halloumi, scrambled eggs, olives and endless coffee. He will also cook a vegetarian or vegan supper for guests (€17pp or €10pp for under 12s). Mains might include baked courgette with rosemary and garlic, served with cinnamon rice, warm bread, salad and marinated chilli, or ajapsandali, a Georgian aubergine stew served with bulgur wheat and local sheep yoghurt.

Guests help themselves to local wine or beer, nicely chilled thanks to electricity generated by solar panels and a wind turbine. Only 2-4% of energy use is generated by a back-up diesel generator and, in 2021, Pawel installed a solar-powered well pump. “We are totally independent when it comes to water for our household, guests and our extensive irrigation system,” he says proudly.

One day I joined Pawel on an early-morning mountain bike (four are available to hire), doing a section of a 15km loop that passes through the abandoned Turkish villages of Istinjo, Melandra, Zacharia and Sarama, a legacy of the Turkish invasion of the island. The 1974 partition of Cyprus and the uprooting of residents is brought starkly to life. The landscape takes no sides, and the beauty is uplifting. We pass the medieval stone-built Skarfos Bridge on the Evretou river. It is an ancient Venetian bridge, poppies growing on its banks, and you can spot Skarfos watermill in the near distance. Evretou reservoir, itself home to two abandoned villages, is a birder’s paradise, and a good spot for fishing and foraging. You can see it on the track as you drive up to Pawel’s yurts.

“I’ve seen mouflon on these trails,” Pawel tells me, referring to an endangered wild sheep famed for its sickle-shaped horns and endemic only to the Troodos mountains. Sadly, we don’t spot any when we visit Omodos, a village in the north-western Troodos with a lovely main square with tavernas and cafés. While it’s a good starting point for hikes, unimpressed children might prefer a visit to the mouflon enclosure in the Troodos forestry station near Stavros, where 30 of these shy, endangered marvels can be seen up close.

For grownups, there are different marvels on offer in the form of the Byzantine churches throughout the Troodos region. For me, the highlight was Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis, or Church of St Nicholas of the Roof, an 11th century Byzantine monastery. This Unesco World Heritage site is 5km from the don’t-miss narrow cobbled village of Kakopetria on the Karkotis river in the Troodos foothills.

This church is distinctive not only for its pitch timber roof and domed cross-in-square structure, but for its magnificent frescoes, dating from the 11th to 17th centuries, that cover every wall. Particularly notable is a rare portrayal of a breastfeeding Madonna, a magnet of which has been on my fridge ever since our visit. In my head, meanwhile, I carry the promise of a return to the hopefulness and warm welcome offered by Pawel, a man who continues to build – and share – his dream of sustainable tourism. “It’s so rewarding,” he tells me. “I am grateful for every visitor.”

Yurts in Cyprus, Paphos: yurtsincyprus.com . Yurts and cabin from €90 to €130 B&B (based on two adults sharing, kids under 12 stay free). For horse riding at George’s Ranch, see georgesranchcyprus.com . For glass-bottomed boat trips from Latchi, see latchiboatcruises.com

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