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Ecotourism Australia 2024 Highlights
Ecotourism Australia Wishes You a Joyful Holiday Season and a Bright New Year! As 2024 comes to a close, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported Ecotourism Australia this year. Your commitment has helped make 2024 our most impactful year yet, with some incredible achievements that continue to advance sustainable tourism across Australia. As we near the end of 2024, here are some highlights that have made this year truly remarkable. ECO Certification Program We certified 24 new tourism businesses and celebrated 12 operators reaching Green Travel Leader status, awarded for 10 years of certification. Two operators - Paronella Park in Queensland and Scenic World Blue Mountains in NSW - were honoured with Hall of Fame status for 20 years of consistently upholding best-practice sustainability standards. Sustainable Tourism Certification Program Our Sustainable Tourism Program saw tremendous growth this year, welcoming 140 newly Certified operators, driven largely by our landmark partnership with Accor Pacific. Accor has set an ambitious goal to certify all their Australian properties with Ecotourism Australia by the end of 2025. Destination Program In 2024, we certified four new destinations, Bellingen Shire, Townsville, Gladstone Region and Capricorn Coast - who have now joined a global network of more than 400 sustainable destinations through our Green Destinations partnership. We were also thrilled to have to opportunity to showcase Australian certified destinations to an international audience at the Green Destinations Global Conference 2024 in Chilean Patagonia. Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard Our pre-certification program, the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard, continues to grow with 179 new registrations in 2024. Thank you to our founding partner Tourism Australia, and industry partners Destination NSW, Visit Canberra, Tourism MidWest Victoria and the Queensland Government’s Department of Tourism and Sport (DTS) for providing valuable opportunities for businesses to begin their sustainability journey. 2024 Global Sustainability Tourism Summit This year, we proudly hosted our first Global Sustainable Tourism Summit, themed People, Planet, Place, Purpose, from 4–6 June in Meeanjin/Brisbane. The event brought together over 280 delegates and 62 speakers from across all states and territories and five countries to engage in innovative and meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities for ecotourism and sustainable tourism. Global Partners Our strategic partnerships with leading international organisations and key industry bodies continue to reinforce Ecotourism Australia’s position as a global leader in sustainable tourism. This year saw our ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certification programs recognised by Travalyst, meaning certified hotels can now have their certification highlighted across global platforms including Booking.com, Google, Expedia, Trip.com, Tripadvisor, Amadeus, Sabre, Skyscanner, Travelport, Visa and Mastercard. We are proud to continue to work collaboratively with other leading global certifying bodies to ensure international best-practice standards are maintained and recognised. By working with these bodies, we promote quality management, continuous improvement and alignment with emerging consumer protection legislation, including the European Union’s Green Claims Directive. National partnerships Our national partnerships with Big Red Group, Australian Tourism Data Warehouse, WWF-Australia, the Australian Tourism Export Council, Caravan Industry Association of Australia and Accommodation Australia have amplified the importance of sustainable tourism and credible certification to the broader tourism industry. Find out more about our partners here. New Board of Directors In October 2024, Ecotourism Australia held its Annual General Meeting, where we announced our new Board of Directors for 2024/25. Members elected four new Directors and re-elected one returning Director, forming the eight-person Ecotourism Australia Board. We would like to welcome our new Directors and thank our outgoing Directors. Find out more here. Making Ecotourism Australia More Accessible Ecotourism Australia has been working to make our digital collateral, including our corporate website and the Green Travel Guide more accessible. Through the QLD Government’s Boosting Accessible Tourism Experiences Grant program, we have improved our sustainability initiatives and made our visual information more inclusive and accessible for those with visual impairments or learning difficulties. This extensive process included conducting a website accessibility audit and re-developing our corporate and visitor-facing website, the Green Travel Guide.
YHA Achieves Sustainable Tourism Certification for Three Properties
YHA are today celebrating a significant achievement in sustainability with three of their properties attaining Sustainable Tourism Certification through Ecotourism Australia. YHA Sydney Harbour, YHA Port Elliot Beach House and YHA Adelaide Central have each demonstrated their strong commitment to environmental, socio-economic, cultural and responsible management principles by implementing global best-practice sustainable tourism standards to become certified. "Achieving Ecotourism Australia's Sustainable Tourism Certification underscores our commitment to environmental stewardship and community support. This certification not only differentiates us in a competitive market but also enhances our operational efficiency. By adopting sustainable practices, we are proud to offer eco-conscious travellers a responsible and enriching stay, while contributing positively to local economies and cultural preservation. Our inclusion in the Green Travel Guide further amplifies our visibility and reputation as a leader in sustainable accommodation. Our partnership with Ecotourism Australia is a win-win situation with sustainable travel the big winner.” says Paul McGrath, CEO of YHA Australia. Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan praised YHA for their exceptional commitment to sustainability. “Congratulations to YHA Sydney Harbour, YHA Port Elliot Beach House and YHA Adelaide Central for achieving Sustainable Tourism Certification. Each property has truly embraced the principles of sustainability and shown real leadership in reducing their environmental footprint and creating positive social impact. We look forward to continuing to support YHA as they aim to certify all 19 of their owned and operated properties in the next 12 months.” YHA properties showcase their commitment to sustainable tourism through a range of unique and meaningful initiatives. At YHA Sydney Harbour, The Big Dig Archaeology Education Centre provides school children with hands-on learning opportunities about Australia’s largest urban archaeological site. YHA Adelaide Central runs Feel Good Fridays, where pancakes are served for a gold coin donation, with all proceeds supporting the Hutt Street Centre to aid Adelaide’s homeless community. Meanwhile, YHA Port Elliot participates annually in Earth Hour and Clean Up Australia Day, and even have their own vegetable garden and on-site compost. Research by UK-based consulting firm Bureau Veritas found that hostel-style accommodation is 82 per cent less carbon intense per bed than hotels. While shared spaces like kitchens and co-living rooms already reduce overall energy use, YHA goes a step further with many properties using solar power and rainwater tanks. Properties that obtain Sustainable Tourism Certification from Ecotourism Australia are now able to add their certification to major online booking platforms, in recognition of the certification meeting global best-practice standards. Achieving certification is a rigorous process, involving over 200 key criteria across the four pillars of sustainability and strong business practices. To achieve global best-practice Sustainable Tourism Certification, it can take up to twelve months and includes an independent third-party audit before certification is awarded. Accommodation providers must demonstrate ongoing commitment, with periodic independent audits required to maintain certification. END Ecotourism Australia Media Contact: Myv Costelloe, Stakeholder Engagement Manager, e: myv@ecotourism.org.au, ph: 07 3256 6777 To see all the latest news: News & Blog | Ecotourism Australia About Ecotourism Australia Ecotourism Australia is a non-government, not-for-profit organisation, established in 1991, that promotes and supports Australia’s visitor economy through building capacity and actively promoting sustainable tourism operations and systems. Our key legacy program – ECO Certification – was the world’s first national ecotourism certification program and the Sustainable Tourism Certification, launched in 2022 supports non-nature based businesses achieve global best-practice. Today there are some 2000 accommodation, tours and attractions certified by Ecotourism Australia. About YHA YHA Australia is a for-purpose, membership-based organisation, providing curious travellers with low cost, quality short-stay accommodation for over 85 years. YHA’s mission is to create communities in diverse spaces and connect travellers with authentic local experiences in a sustainable way, with a purpose to create a more open and accommodating world. YHA Australia own, operate and partner with a diverse range of properties across Australia offering private and co-living accommodation with facilities like on-site pools, kitchens and open-air rooftops. They create unique, sustainable spaces with comfort in safe, welcoming environments - giving their guests the freedom to explore. From thriving city destinations to off-the-beaten-path locations, there is something for everyone - whether you live in Australia or are just visiting. Currently, YHA have a network of 49 properties across the country and are part of the global organisation Hostelling International (HI) – a network of over 3,000 unique places to stay in more than 70 countries. For more information on YHA Australia, please visit http://yha.com.au.
KMSPico: Windows Activation Explained - How It Works
KMSPico: Windows Activation Explained - How It Works Want Windows activated without a product key? This tool aims to do just that by simulating a Key Management Server (KMS) on your machine. This method bypasses traditional activation by tricking Windows into thinking it's connected to a corporate network. We'll explain how it accomplishes this, outlining the process in a way that cuts through the technical jargon. Understanding the Activation Process The program operates by creating a fake KMS server directly on your computer. This local server then communicates with your Windows installation, issuing a digital license. The system interprets this license as valid, thus activating the OS. Think of it as creating a phantom IT department solely for the purpose of authorizing your Windows copy. Important: Antivirus programs often flag such tools as malware due to their modification of system files. This raises serious security concerns about your data and overall system stability. Risks and Considerations Using activation tools carries significant risks. You could expose your system to malware and compromise your personal data. Always weigh these dangers before proceeding. Potential Consequences: System instability and crashes Security vulnerabilities Legal implications Loss of access to updates Legitimate Activation Alternatives Instead of relying on activation tools, consider these ethical methods: Purchase a License Buying a Windows license guarantees security and grants access to official support and updates. Educational Programs Many institutions offer discounted or free licenses for students and faculty. Free OS Alternatives Linux distributions provide robust functionality without licensing fees. For more information about activation tools, you can visit this resource. Technical Breakdown Step Process 1 Installs local KMS emulator 2 Replaces product key 3 Forces activation 4 Schedules reactivation Note: This process modifies system files and may trigger security alerts. Security Best Practices Essential Security Measures: Keep antivirus software updated Regularly scan your system Back up important data Avoid disabling security features For official Windows activation support, visit Microsoft's activation page. .x7f3k9 { max-width: 900px; margin: 0 auto; font-family: 'Segoe UI', Tahoma, Geneva, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.6; color: #333; padding: 20px; } .y2p4q1 { margin-bottom: 30px; } .center-text { text-align: center; color: #2c3e50; } .card-style { background: #f8f9fa; border-left: 4px solid #3498db; padding: 15px; border-radius: 0 4px 4px 0; margin: 20px 0; } .section-box { background: white; border-radius: 8px; padding: 20px; margin-bottom: 25px; box-shadow: 0 2px 5px rgba(0,0,0,0.1); } .alt-bg { background: #f0f7ff; } .warning-box { background: #fff3cd; border-left: 4px solid #ffc107; padding: 15px; margin: 15px 0; border-radius: 0 4px 4px 0; } .risk-list { background: #ffecec; padding: 15px; border-radius: 4px; margin: 15px 0; } .options-grid { display: grid; grid-template-columns: repeat(auto-fit, minmax(250px, 1fr)); gap: 20px; margin: 20px 0; } .option-card { background: white; padding: 15px; border-radius: 8px; box-shadow: 0 2px 4px rgba(0,0,0,0.1); } .tech-table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 20px 0; } .tech-table th, .tech-table td { border: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 12px; text-align: left; } .tech-table th { background-color: #f2f2f2; } .tech-table tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #f9f9f9; } .note-text { font-style: italic; color: #666; font-size: 0.9em; } .checklist { background: #e8f5e9; padding: 15px; border-radius: 4px; margin: 15px 0; } .v1w2x3 { color: #2980b9; text-decoration: none; font-weight: 500; } .v1w2x3:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1 { font-size: 2.2em; margin-bottom: 20px; } h2 { font-size: 1.8em; margin: 30px 0 15px; color: #2c3e50; } h3 { font-size: 1.4em; margin: 20px 0 10px; color: #34495e; } strong { color: #2c3e50; } em { color: #7f8c8d; }
Salter Brothers Hospitality Celebrates Sustainability Milestone
Salter Brothers Hospitality have reached a major sustainability milestone with four of their Spicers Retreats achieving Sustainable Tourism Certification through Ecotourism Australia. The four Southeast Queensland retreats - Spicers Tamarind Retreat, Spicers Clovelly Estate, Spicers Peak Lodge and Spicers Hidden Vale - have each demonstrated their strong commitment to environmental, socio-economic, cultural and responsible management principles, by implementing global best-practice sustainable tourism standards to achieve certification. “Today marks an incredible milestone for Salter Brothers Hospitality as we celebrate the Sustainable Tourism Certification of four of our Queensland properties by Ecotourism Australia,” says CEO Tash Tobias. “This recognition is testament to our commitment to responsible tourism and the hard work of our dedicated teams. By protecting and honouring our natural surroundings, we’re able to create experiences that not only inspire our guests but also safeguard these precious environments for generations to come. Our journey doesn’t end here – it only strengthens our resolve to lead with integrity and sustainability in everything we do.” Salter Brothers Hospitality has integrated numerous sustainability initiatives throughout its properties, including partnering with community and conservation organisations, repurposing food waste, sourcing local produce, and providing accessible rooms for guests. Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan said the commitment by the four Spicers Retreats was outstanding. “Travellers are increasingly demanding more environmentally friendly stays that give back to local communities, and Spicers Retreats absolutely reflect this philosophy in everything they do. We congratulate Spicers Tamarind Retreat, Spicers Clovelly Estate, Spicers Peak Lodge, and Spicers Hidden Vale for achieving Sustainable Tourism Certification, joining over 100 Ecotourism Australia-certified hotels and resorts across Australia who meet global best-practice standards. It is wonderful to see the accommodation sector lead the way in integrating sustainability across a wide range of environmental and social impact initiatives. For example, Spicers Peak Lodge partners with Vanguard Laundry, a socially responsible linen supplier, and features Leif bathroom amenities, which are eco-friendly, plant-based, and made in Australia. We look forward to continuing to support Salters Brothers Hospitality in their sustainability journey.” Properties that obtain Sustainable Tourism Certification from Ecotourism Australia are now able to add their certification to their Booking.com listing, in recognition of the certification meeting global best-practice standards. Achieving certification is a rigorous process, involving over 200 key criteria across the four pillars of sustainability and strong business practices. To achieve global best-practice Sustainable Tourism Certification, it can take up to twelve months and includes an independent third-party audit before certification is awarded. Hotels must demonstrate ongoing commitment, with periodic independent audits required to maintain certification. END Ecotourism Australia Media Contact: Myv Costelloe, Stakeholder Engagement Manager, e: myv@ecotourism.org.au, ph: 07 3256 6777 To see all the latest news: News & Blog | Ecotourism Australia About Salter Brothers Hospitality Salter Brothers Hospitality (SBH) is a leading Australian luxury hospitality company, committed to creating unforgettable experiences for discerning travellers. We operate a curated collection of boutique hotels, retreats, and estates, including the renowned Spicers Retreats, Bannisters Group and the soon-to-launch Ardour Hotels & Estates. Salter Brothers Hospitality proudly operates and manages a portfolio of exceptional, luxury hospitality brands across Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia. The portfolio comprises 20 exceptional luxury retreats, hotels and lodges, 29 exquisite restaurants and bars, and the renowned Scenic Rim Trail, Queensland’s only inclusion in the Great Walks of Australia. You can find more information about Salter Brothers Hospitality and its portfolio at www.salterbrothershospitality.com
Leveraging your certification
ibis Sydney Darling Harbour, NSW. Photo Credit: Accor PacificMaking the most of your certificationEcotourism Australia is proud to support all of our Certified Operators. We encourage you to make the most of your certification and work with us as we strive to raise the profile of certification within our industry.Key Benefits Amplify your visibility through our partnerships with Tourism Australia, the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW), the Big Red Group (Red Balloon, Adrenaline and Adventure Oz sites), Accommodation Australia, the Caravan Industry Association of Australia, Queensland Tourism Industry Council and the Victorian Tourism Industry Council. Be recognised as a sustainable business on platforms like Booking.com and Google, attracting eco-conscious travellers to book your property. Showcase your certification to international buyers through the Tourism Trade Checklist under our partnership with the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC). Access incentives and rewards in national parks and protected areas through our collaboration with other key industry groups and Protected Area Management partners. Get featured on Ecotourism Australia's communications channels and gain access to our 26,000+ followers on social media and 5,000+ newsletter subscribers. Get listed on the Green Travel Guide, our online search engine showcasing all our certified tourism operators and destinations. Gain access to government grants and promotion and depending on where you operate, you may be eligible to apply for and obtain longer permits and licences for operations within protected areas and parks. Improve your eligibility and chances of winning prestigious tourism awards. Obtain support to maintain your certification while you rebuild if you have been impacted by climate disasters, including bushfires, floods and cyclones. Industry RecognitionCertification recognised and rewarded by international organisations:Google Eligibility: ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certified hotels (excluding Nature Tourism level)Benefits: Google has introduced a way for certified hotel owners to highlight their sustainability practices to environmentally-conscious consumers. Due to our rigorous certification criteria, ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certification have been included among a selection of highly regarded certification programs worldwide approved by Google.Booking.com Eligibility: ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certified accommodation providers (excluding Nature Tourism level).Benefits: ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certified accommodations listed on Booking.com now display the Sustainable Travel Badge - an easy way for travellers to identify sustainable properties. Ecotourism Australia is eligible as the criteria in our programs is recognised as meeting global best practice standards. Travalyst Eligibility: ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certified operators (excluding Nature Tourism level)Benefits: Through this recognition, ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certified Operators will be highlighted across global platforms such as Booking.com, Google, Expedia, Trip.com, Tripadvisor, Amadeus, Sabre, Skyscanner, Travelport, Visa and Mastercard. This recognition not only raises our Certified Operators’ profiles but also assists travellers in making responsible, informed choices. Certification recognised and rewarded by national and state organisations:Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) Eligibility: ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certified operators and businesses.Benefits: ATDW is Australia’s online marketplace for tourism information, assisting tourism operators and businesses to improve their digital presence and supporting over 50,000 tourism profiles. ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certified businesses with an ATDW listing can display their certification on their listing.Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) Eligibility: ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certified businesses.Benefits: ECO Certification is the only certification program that is recognised by ATEC. Complete the Tourism Trade Checklist as a certified business to showcase your certification on the ATEC Seller Directory to international buyers.Big Red Group Eligibility: ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certified operators and businesses.Benefits: Big Red Group is the largest marketplace of experiences in Australia and New Zealand and home to leading brands including Adrenaline, Experience Oz, Experience Oz Local Agent, and RedBalloon. ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certified operators with a Big Red Group listing can display their certifications to help eco-conscious travellers find and book with your business.Tourism Tribe Ecotourism Australia has entered an affiliate partnership agreement with Tourism Tribe to support training in digital and business improvement. Many of our operators are small businesses, and the opportunity to provide them greater access to training to support their business operations is very important. Tourism Tribe Discount Offer Eligibility: Ecotourism Australia Members and Certified Operators Benefit: Members and Certified Operators receive 20% discount on Tourism Tribe platform access. Eligibility: Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard holders and certification applicants Benefit: Members and Certified Operators receive 10% discount on Tourism Tribe platform access.Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) Partnership Eligibility: ECO, Sustainable Tourism, ROC or Climate Action Certified businesses based in Queensland.Benefits: Under this agreement, the cross recognition between programs means that you are eligible to redeem accreditation through the Quality Tourism Accredited Business (QTAB) program through QTIC at no additional cost, and take advantage of the program’s valuable benefits including free Shiji ReviewPro access, automatic eligibility for nomination in the Queensland Tourism Awards, and many more.National Park and Protected Area PermitsEcotourism Australia collaborates with all national parks across Australia, with most of the Protected Area Managers (PAMs) being members of Ecotourism Australia. Certified operators benefit from this relationship by receiving longer permits and/or reduced licence fees.StateCertificationBenefitsQLDECOQueensland Parks & Wildlife Service Certification is required for operators in Queensland who hold a 15-year Commercial Activity Agreement for guided tours in: K’gari – Fraser Island Recreation Area Great Sandy Marine Park (whale watching) Springbrook National Park (glow worm tours) Find out more about QPWS at www.parks.des.qld.gov.au QLDECO Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) 20 year permits to operators on the Reef certified at the Ecotourism or Advanced Ecotourism levels and recognise and promote them as High Standard Tourism Operators. For your staff to participate in the Master Reef Guide program you must hold current ECO Certification Find out more about GBRMPA at www2.gbrmpa.gov.au WAECODepartment of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Access to 1-, 3- or 5-year licences for Nature Tourism certified operators Access to 7-year licences for Ecotourism certified operators Access to 10-year licences for Advanced Ecotourism certified operators Tour operators offering “swim with” experiences must be Ecotourism or Advanced Ecotourism certified. Find out more about Western Australia’s, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions at www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/ NSWECONSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Certified operators are eligible for a 10% discount on their annual licence fee. Find out more about NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service at www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au NTECO & ROCNational Parks - Northern Territory Certification is mandatory for Parks Australia (Kakadu National Park and Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park). ECO and ROC certified operators in Uluṟu and Kakadu can apply for a 3-year standard land-based permit (in addition to 1 year permit). Find out more about Northern Territory National Parks at www.northernterritory.com SAECO, CA & ROCNational Parks & Wildlife Service South Australia 3-year Commercial Tour Operator Licence for Nature Tourism and Climate Action operators 5-year Commercial Tour Operator Licence for Ecotourism, Advanced Ecotourism and ROC operators Find out more about National Parks & Wildlife Service South Australia and start planning your next visit www.parks.sa.gov.au TASECOTasmania Parks & Wildlife Service Products operating in Tasmanian National Parks are required to hold accreditation. ECO Certification is one of the recognised programs. Find out more about Tasmanian Parks & Wildlife at www.parks.tas.gov.au VICECO & STCParks Victoria ECO (excluding Nature Tourism level) and Sustainable Tourism Certification can access a 10-year national park licence. Nature Tourism Certification can access 5-year national park licences. Find out more about Parks Victoria at www.parks.vic.gov.au Things you can do right now1.Display your certification logo You have worked hard for your certification - show your guests, media, and industry all that you do to strive for a sustainable operation! Include your certification logo in your advertisements, feature it on your website, display it on your vehicles and in your guest information, and mention your certification in media briefings. For guidance refer to the Communications Toolkit you received when you were certified.2.Send us your news to share Did you know that Ecotourism Australia has a monthly email newsletter? Send your media releases or updates to eco@ecotourism.org.au and we will feature them in our ‘Member News’ section, sent out to over 5,000 subscribers.3.Connect with us on socials to reach a wider audience We love to like and share your social media posts. Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and tag us whenever you post something that may interest eco and sustainable travellers.4.Get involved in our case studies We are always searching for best practice sustainability stories to share with our audience. If you have sustainability initiatives that you are proud of and want to share, contact eco@ecotourism.org.au for the opportunity to be part of a case study.5.Maximise your Green Travel Guide listing Your certification entitles you to a free basic listing on our online Green Travel Guide - a searchable database of Certified Operators and Destinations. All Certified Operators receive a Bronze Listing including: 1-3 images Your business address, region and phone number A link to your website Business description and experience type Certification logo(s) Sustainability Commitment and Accessibility Details Product listing with product descriptions (certified products only) Shiji ReviewPro Widget - Note: Your Shiji ReviewPro score may appear as zero until your business has sufficient reviews to produce data. Please talk to the Ecotourism Australia team to opt out of ReviewPro’s services at eco@ecotourism.org.au. Note: To amplify your listing on the Green Travel Guide, Certified Operators have the option to upgrade from a Bronze to a Silver Listing for $199. Contact the team to find out how. Green Travel Leaders (10+ years of continuious certification) receive a Silver Listing including: Business Logo and header banner image 1-6 images Your business address, region and phone number A link to your website Business description and experience type Certification logo(s) Sustainability Commitment and Accessibility Details Product listing with descriptions including product images (certified products only) Shiji ReviewPro Widget Hall of Fame (20+ years of continuious certification) receive a Gold Listing including: Business Logo and header banner image Unlimited images Your business address, region and phone number A link to your website Business description and experience type Certification logo(s) Sustainability Commitment and Accessibility Details Product listing with descriptions including product images (certified products only) Option to include a video Shiji ReviewPro Widget Did you know? International studies show that travellers are increasingly looking for more sustainable travel options. Talk to us to find out how we can help you amplify your sustainability story. 6.Advertise jobs for free Did you know we have a careers page? Job listings are free for Ecotourism Australia certified businesses and destinations. Send the Ecotourism Australia team an email including the job title, job description, application due date (if applicable), link or email address to apply, and a high-quality image of your logo.7.Bring your supply chain on your sustainability journey Encourage your supply chain to complete Ecotourism Australia’s Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard to receive an insight into their sustainability practices and expert recommendations from the Ecotourism Australia team.8.Have your say on our strategic direction Want to take a representative role in Australia’s nature-based, eco and sustainable tourism industry? Your certification grants you full voting rights and the right to nominate and/or stand for election to Ecotourism Australia’s Board of Directors. This election is held at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) each year. Keep an eye out on our social media channels or email communications for notices for nomination periods and AGM dates.9.Network at our conferences and events Ecotourism Australia’s events bring together leading speakers on ecotourism, sustainability and responsible tourism, as well as tourism operators, protected area managers, tourism organisations, Indigenous bodies and researchers. Attend an Ecotourism Australia event and create opportunities for business-to-business and business-to-government collaboration, focused on practical and applied eco and sustainable tourism.10.Get help with your award nominations and grant applications Did you know that Ecotourism Australia can provide referral letters to Certified Operators? You can also use your certification as proof that your business meets the ‘Business Standards’ criteria, utilise audit comments and application examples in your submissions, and access additional hints and tips, such as sustainability webinars. Contact us to find out more.11.Let us connect you with international markets We attend the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) and ATEC’s Meeting Place each year to represent our Certified Operators and promote your products to international buyers. Be sure to catch up with our team while you are there!12.Add to your certification Since 2017, our Eco Guide Certification Program has been managed by our partners at Savannah Guides. This arrangement means Eco Guides receive access to greater recognition and benefits including: Internationally recognised Eco Guide logo ensuring easy identification and serving as a guarantee for visitors that guides are dedicated to delivering high-quality nature tourism experiences. Training providers gain a benchmark of best practice tour guiding. Opportunity to list job openings free on our careers page. Discounts are available for businesses that wish to have 5+ guides certified in the Eco Guide program.Brands who trust us
Celebrating World Sustainable Transport Day with Ecotourism Australia’s Certified Operators
Today, we celebrate World Sustainable Transport Day, an opportunity to reflect on how we can all make transport safer, more efficient, more inclusive and greener. Established by the UN General Assembly in May 2023, this day reminds us of the important role sustainable transport plays in supporting economic resilience, improving the social welfare of people and preserving our natural world. What is Sustainable Transport? Sustainable transport is more than just moving people from place to place. Sustainable transport connects people, communities and businesses, while protecting natural environments, promoting social inclusion and strengthening economic resilience. According to Expedia Group’s Sustainable Travel Study, three in five consumers opt for more environmentally friendly transportation while travelling. When it comes to sustainable travel, consumers are most interested in options with low environmental impact and expect that travel operators, including transportation providers, demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. In honour of World Sustainable Transport Day, here are five of our certified transport operators who are leading the way in green, inclusive, and community-centric travel: SeaLink North Queensland – ECO Certified, ECO Certified on the nature level, Respecting Our Culture Certified, Green Travel Leader Image: SeaLink Magnetic Island ferrySeaLink North Queensland is an award-winning transport service, providing the quickest link between Townsville and Magnetic Island. Some of their sustainability initiatives include implementing energy-efficient lighting across terminals and vessels, which is turned off when not in use, and introducing digital e-tickets and a commuter app to reduce the use of paper tickets. To provide more sustainable marine transport solutions, Sealink is working with governments and clients around Australia to design and build low and green-emission vessels, including hydrogen and electric-powered options. Find SeaLink North Queensland on the Green Travel Guide here. 2. Tropic Wings Cairns Tours & Charters – ECO Certified on the nature level, Green Travel Leader, Hall of Fame Image: Tropic Wings’ electric tour busTropic Wings Cairns Tours & Charters is the longest-established coach operator in Tropical North Queensland, providing quality eco-friendly tours in Kuranda and Cape Tribulation. Tropic Wings proudly operates Australia’s first 100% electric bus and the first fleet of electric coaches used for day tours. Through their Towards Sustainable Transport in Tourism project, they have installed 11 advanced charging stations and developed off-grid operational capabilities in the event of outages, setting new benchmarks for sustainable transport in tourism. Find Tropic Wings Cairns Tours & Charters on the Green Travel Guide here. 3. Down Under Tours – Advanced ECO Certified, Hall of Fame, Green Travel Leader Image: Down Under Tours’ fleet of coachesFamily-owned and operating in Cairns and Tropical North Queensland, Down Under Tours is dedicated to delivering memorable tour experiences that cater to everyone. Their tours are designed to include individuals who are visually impaired, deaf or hard of hearing, as well as those with limited mobility, cognitive disabilities or who are neurodiverse. Their accessible fleet includes dedicated wheelchair-accessible coaches with features like side-loading hydraulic lifts, ensuring an inclusive and comfortable experience for all. Find Down Under Tours on the Green Travel Guide here. 4. HeliSpirit – ECO Certified, Hall of Fame, Green Travel Leader Image: Scenic helicopter flight over Lake Argyle and the surrounding ranges in Western AustraliaHeliSpirit offers a variety of unforgettable helicopter adventures across the Kimberley region of Western Australia. They have partnered with Eve Air Mobility to introduce up to 50 zero-emission electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, with flights starting as early as 2026. This innovative fleet will provide quick, efficient and emission-free air travel, with the added benefit of reducing noise by up to 90% compared to equivalent helicopter types. HeliSpirit is committed to significantly reducing its carbon footprint by operating zero-emission electric aircraft, offering unrivalled sustainable tourism experiences across Western Australia. Find HeliSpirit on the Green Travel Guide here. 5. Beyond Byron E bikes – ECO Certified, Green Travel Leader Image: e-bike tour in the Unicorn Falls, National Park and Rail Trail In New South WalesBeyond Byron E Bikes offers guided e-bike tours of the Hinterland and National Parks surrounding Byron Bay in NSW. Their mission is to reduce carbon emissions from transport by promoting the use of e-bikes as an alternative form of transport while encouraging guests to foster a deeper connection to nature. Committed to leaving no trace behind, they have partnered with ReForestNow.org to plant local rainforest trees for every tour, offsetting their carbon footprint and contributing to rainforest restoration. Find Beyond Byron E Bikes on the Green Travel Guide here. To find out more about World Sustainable Transport Day, check out their website here: https://www.worldsustainabletransportday.org/
Mt Mulligan Lodge
Luxury Lodge Accommodation Mount Mulligan / QLD Completed Advanced ECO Certification Nestled in the rugged bushland of Northern Queensland, Mt Mulligan Lodge is an all-inclusive luxury accommodation set on a 28,000-hectare site rich with gold and coal rush history and 37,000 years of Indigenous heritage. Mt Mulligan Lodge is serious about their responsibility to protect, restore, and preserve the environment, working every day to make positive change and leave things better than when they found them. Some of their sustainability initiatives include installing rainwater collection tanks for irrigation, investing in composting and recycling facilities and utilising solar energy to power the lodge and provide hot water for guests. Additionally, Mt Mulligan Lodge prioritises sourcing local, organic, free-range, fair trade, biodynamic and sustainably farmed produce and products from local suppliers where possible. Ecotourism Australia asked the General Managers of Mt Mulligan Lodge, James and Phoebe Egan a few questions about their Certification and sustainability initiatives. Image: James and Phoebe Egan, General Managers of Mt Mt Mulligan Lodge What was your main reason for pursuing certification? Sustainability is at the core of everything we do at Mt Mulligan Lodge, having been part of our story and guiding principles since our inception. One of the main reasons we decided to pursue certification with Ecotourism Australia was because it is well-regarded, recognised and trusted across the tourism and hospitality industry. The certification empowers us to confidently share our sustainability story, practices, and ethos with our guests, employees, and local community. Image: Mt Mulligan Lodge, Mount Mulligan, QLD. Credit: James Vodicka Were there any recommendations that improved your business? As a luxury lodge, our guests are always our top priority. The regular audits have provided expert guidance on areas for improvement, helping us stay aligned with our sustainability goals. The audits also kept our team accountable for upholding and improving our sustainability practices for the long term. Key insights from the audits include: Enhancements in waste management, resource, and energy efficiency A framework to optimize our daily operations Procurement recommendations to help us source more ethical products Image: Interior of Mt Mulligan Lodge. Credit: Jason Lerace How has certification impacted your business so far? Increasingly, travellers are seeking eco-certified experiences in the luxury travel market. Our advanced certification provides us with a distinctive advantage against our competitors in the luxury lodge sector. Our eco-conscious guests have also expressed their support and praise for our sustainability practices and accreditation during their stay with us. We hope to make our guests feel proud of their choice to stay with us and encourage them to return and share their positive feedback with their family and friends. Additionally, the access to resources and networking opportunities with like-minded businesses within the Ecotourism Australia community has also been incredibly valuable. This collaboration allows us to share our initiatives and learn best practices from others, helping to drive positive change across the sustainable tourism industry. Image: Panoramic view of Mt Mulligan Lodge. Credit: James Vodicka To discover more about Mt Mulligan Lodge, you can find them on the Green Travel Guide.
Australia by Nature
Tour operatorSydney / NSWCompleted the Strive 4 Sustainability ScorecardAs travellers increasingly seek meaningful connections with nature that minimise their environmental impact, Australia by Nature actively supports sustainable tourism practices designed to leave the environment better off.Australia by Nature creates experiences that deepen travellers' connection to the natural world. The company prioritises environmental preservation and supports local communities, reflecting its commitment to sustainability in every aspect of its operations. By completing the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard pre-certification program with Ecotourism Australia, Australia by Nature is setting the benchmark for sustainable tourism. Caroline Rutherford, founder of Australia by Nature, shares her journey through the program, “We have been following Ecotourism Australia for some time now, with the plan to undergo ECO Certification. When Destination NSW announced their partnership with Ecotourism Australia on the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard, we jumped at the chance to take part and learn more about the process." The Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard pre-certification program offers businesses a better understanding of their sustainability practices while laying a strong foundation for achieving global standard Certification. Caroline adds, “We operate all our immersive tours in nature. This comes with the responsibility of ensuring we leave a minimal impact on the places we explore." “The Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard was a fantastic way to dig deep into our business to ensure we are doing our absolute best to fix any gaps. It was a great introduction to the certification process which we are hoping to go through in the near future." One of Australia by Nature’s standout sustainable initiatives is its emphasis on education as a pillar of its operations. This includes continually adapting sustainability efforts to keep up with new insights, changing tour offerings and educating both their staff and guests on important sustainable practices. Caroline highlights, “Education is at the heart of everything we do. With my background in teaching Sustainable Tourism at the tertiary level and volunteering work with Sea Shepherd, I hope to inspire and educate each explorer, empowering them to bring sustainable travel practices into their everyday lives. "Every small step makes a difference, and together, we can create lasting change." Australia by Nature actively promotes the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard within the industry and to its guests. Caroline continues, "The Scorecard has provided invaluable insights on what we need to do to enhance our sustainability efforts. We are dedicated to promoting responsible tourism across our website and social media and will continue to champion this cause. "Feedback from our guests consistently highlights that our storytelling about nature and sustainability adds an enriching layer to their tour experience." With its unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism, Australia by Nature is a shining example of how to craft unforgettable experiences that foster a deep connection to nature while driving progress towards a more sustainable future. Learn more about Australia by Nature here. Australia by Nature completed their Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard on 19 August 2024. The scorecard is not a certification and is valid for 12 months upon completion.Start your sustainability journey.POWERED BYFOUNDING PARTNER
Global Recognition
Global Recognition Global and international expectations are changing as increasingly travellers, the community and governments demand authentic, unique, culturally responsible and environmentally sustainable experiences and the removal of greenwashing. Regulatory frameworks and international standards around certification labels and brands are expected and increasing. These changes strongly align with Ecotourism Australia’s values and our Certified Operators and Destinations because it represents transparency and credibility. Travellers don’t just want destinations and tourism operators to say they are sustainable; they want them to prove and demonstrate it. More and more research show a growing demand for genuine ecotourism and sustainable tourism experiences that align with travellers’ conscious consumer values. This highlights the need for operators and destinations to step up their sustainability initiatives – and communicate them effectively. Tourism Sustainability Certification Alliance Ecotourism Australia is a founding member of the Tourism Sustainability Certifications Alliance (TSCA), a global association for sustainable tourism established in January 2025. This global collaboration, covering more than 19,000 certified tourism entities worldwide, have been essential in setting and upholding international sustainability criteria for over 30 years. By working with these bodies, we promote quality management, continuous improvement, and independent verification audits, ensuring our certification aligns with recognised global standards. The nine founding members of TSCA – Ecotourism Australia, Biosphere, Green Globe, Foundation for Environmental Education (Blue Flag and Green Key), Good Travel Seal, Green Globe, Green Key Global, TourCert, Travelife for Accommodation, and Travelife for Tour Operators have aligned our respective certification programs’ minimum criteria and auditing processes under a new standard (the TSCA Standard). TSCA has been incorporated by its founding members as a unified certification platform for the tourism industry to ensure consistency and credibility in sustainable tourism management and to enable travellers to make informed choices based on the highest sustainability standards. By joining TSCA, we have an even bigger opportunity for our certification programs to achieve further recognition internationally.United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Ecotourism Australia’s certification programs align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by embedding environmental, socio-economic, and cultural sustainability principles into tourism operations. Through a robust set of criteria across eight key sections, certified businesses demonstrate a tangible commitment to global sustainability objectives. These criteria encompass key areas such as responsible consumption, climate action, biodiversity conservation, and equitable economic growth, ensuring that tourism plays a role in advancing a more sustainable and resilient future.European Union Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive The rising demand for sustainable products has led to a rise in greenwashing – where businesses make false or misleading environmental claims to appear more eco-friendly. Previously, the European Union (EU) planned to address this issue with the Green Claims Directive (GCD), which would have required businesses to substantiate their environmental claims from 2027 onwards. As of June 2025, GCD has been withdrawn due to a lack of political consensus and concern about the regulatory burden, especially on small businesses. However, the need to back up your business’ sustainability claims with evidence, including certification, remains as important as ever. The EU’s Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive, which came into force in March 2024, must be implemented by all EU countries by March 2026. This directive aims to protect consumers from greenwashing by banning vague or unsubstantiated environmental claims, ensuring transparency so consumers can make informed, sustainable choices. As global suppliers, Australian tourism businesses that market to the EU will need to comply with these new consumer protection standards. This means that environmental claims must be clear and accurate, with vague or unsupported claims prohibited. Now is the time for Australian operators to proactively align with these standards, setting their sustainability practices in order well ahead of 2026. Ecotourism Australia is firmly committed to supporting all tourism businesses, and especially small businesses, to achieve certification and ensure their environmental claims are substantiated.Did you know? The Global Sustainable Tourism Industry is expected to hit USD $11.4 trillion by 2032 (Sustainable Tourism Market report, Travel and Tour World, 2024). 75% of global travellers say that they want to travel more sustainably over the next 12 months (Booking.com, 2024 Report). Recognised best practice standard and working globally to support the Australian visitor economy Ecotourism Australia’s strategic partnerships with international organisations and key industry bodies continue to strengthen Australia’s sustainable tourism industry. We collaborate with world-renowned groups such as: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) UN Tourism Sustainable Tourism Certifications Alliance Green Destinations WWF-Australia, Parks Australia Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) As demand for sustainability certification grows, Ecotourism Australia and our global partners remain committed to rigorous standards, ensuring that our certification process aligns with global best practices and emerging consumer protection regulations, like the European Union’s Green Claims Directive. This collaborative approach allows us to provide accessible, affordable certification options, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which make up a large portion of the tourism industry. Together, we ensure that sustainable tourism certification remains a credible benchmark and a driving force for positive environmental and social impact across the global visitor economy.We are proud to be recognised by:Booking.com Booking.com, as one of the world’s largest Online Travel Agencies (OTA), use globally recognised third party certifications, like Ecotourism Australia’s ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certification to validate sustainability claims. Accommodation with a recognised third-party certification have a clear sustainability label on the site which can also be used by travellers to filter their search.Google Google has introduced a way for certified hotel owners to highlight their sustainability practices to environmentally-conscious consumers. Due to our rigorous certification criteria, ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certification have been included among a selection of highly regarded certification programs worldwide approved by Google.Travalyst A global initiative offering sustainable insights guiding travellers to make informed choices. Through this recognition, ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certified Operators (excluding Nature Tourism level) will be highlighted through global platforms such as Booking.com, Google, Expedia, Trip.com, Tripadvisor, Amadeus, Sabre, Skyscanner, Travelport, Visa and Mastercard. This recognition not only raises our Certified Operators’ profiles but also assists travellers in making responsible, informed choices. Accor Accor has partnered with Ecotourism Australia to certify their hotels in Sustainable Tourism Certification. Ecotourism Australia was one of just three global certification providers chosen to independently certify Accor’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and apartments, with the organisations entering strategic partnership in 2023. Today Ecotourism Australia has certified more than 190 hotels across Australia. Underscoring their commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism, Accor is targeting Sustainable Tourism Certification across their entire global group. Accor operates 19 international brands across Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and French Polynesia, such as Sofitel, MGallery, Art Series, Pullman, Swissôtel, Mövenpick, Grand Mercure, Peppers, The Sebel, Mantra, Handwritten Collection, Novotel, TRIBE, Mercure, BreakFree, ibis, ibis Styles and ibis budget.Association of British Travel Agents ABTA is a trade association for UK travel agents, tour operators, and the wider travel industry. For over 70 years, ABTA has supported its members in running successful travel businesses while providing travellers with advice, guidance, and support. ABTA works closely with its members to raise and maintain standards, aiming to build a more sustainable travel industry. Whether for business, leisure, or visiting family and friends, travellers can relax and enjoy their trips when they book with an ABTA member. Ecotourism Australia’s Standards (ECO Certification and Sustainable Tourism Certification) are included in the list of certification schemes and labels that share their ambitions, with some already accredited or committed to achieving accreditation by the end of 2026.Australian Tourism Export Council ATEC’s Tourism Trade Checklist — an industry-led platform which aims to promote quality tourism sellers who comply with Australia’s operational law and regulations. The checklist allows for sellers to easily upload their trade relevant information to a directory, which is then accessed by Australian-based and international buyers and trade partners. As a participant, we not only support accessible compliance information but also enhance the quality and sustainability of Australia’s tourism industry. Start your sustainability journey with us!Your Sustainability Pathway Explore our Certifications and Pathway Program to get started.Business Certifications Apply for ECO Certification or Sustainable Tourism Certification.Destination Certifications Apply for ECO Destination or Sustainable Tourism Destination Certification.
Taronga Conservation Society
Not-for-profit organisationMosman / NSWGreen Travel LeaderTaronga Conservation Society Australia (Taronga) is more than just a zoo. For the past 100 years, Taronga has transformed into a conservation and education hub to help secure a shared future for wildlife and people. Operating Taronga Zoo in Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, Taronga Conservation Society Australia is a leader in the fields of conservation, research, education and environmental sustainability, working across NSW, Australia and the globe. In 2024, Taronga Conservation Society celebrated 20 years of ECO Certification by Ecotourism Australia and achieved Hall of Fame status - a testament to their continuous commitment to sustainability. Ecotourism Australia asked Taronga Conservation Society some questions about their Certification and sustainability initiatives. Here are their responses: How has achieving Certification impacted Taronga Conservation Society’s daily operations and overall strategic planning so far? Achieving certification perfectly aligns with Taronga’s vision to create a shared future for wildlife and people and has provided them with a robust framework to continuously improve their operations and strategic planning. In today’s world, claiming to be sustainable is no longer enough - businesses must demonstrate their commitment through action. For Taronga Conservation Society, the certification serves as a trusted benchmark to show that they are not just talking about sustainability, but actively embedding it into various aspects of the organisation. What are some of Taronga Conservation Society’s initiatives that demonstrate their commitment to sustainable tourism? Taronga Conservation Society recently opened its Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Centre (ARC), providing guests with the opportunity to encounter over 42 remarkable species of amphibians and reptiles from across Australia and around the globe. Designed with education and engagement as the key focus, ARC introduces five interactive characters known as the Climate Heroes, who guide guests through a climate-focused journey, highlighting how individual actions can make a significant impact on our environment and climate change. To improve accessibility within Taronga Zoo, an electric train will be introduced soon to help guests navigate the zoo’s steepest areas. This initiative aligns with Taronga's broader plan of transitioning to a fully electric fleet in the near future, reinforcing its commitment to be a diverse and inclusive site that is able to offer an amazing experience to all of its guests. At the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga, a new range of eco-friendly dry amenities has been introduced to reduce their footprint. This includes the use of bioplastic (made from cornstarch) for items such as shower caps and sanitary bags and partnering with Supply Nation Certified operators like Binjang Tea which specialises in Indigenous Australian native teas, crafted with native ingredients and First Nations wisdom. How do you envision the role of Taronga Conservation Society in sustainable tourism evolving in the coming years? As environmental awareness grows, Taronga Conservation Society will continue to lead by example. It will continue to expand its efforts to educate visitors about sustainability, transforming each visit into an opportunity to inspire positive change. By offering more immersive experiences that foster meaningful connections between people and wildlife, Taronga aims to help visitors better understand their impact on the environment. Recognising the need for zoos to continually evolve, Taronga embraces its role as a global leader in conservation and education. Their advocacy for wildlife extends beyond the zoo grounds, reaching communities across Australia and around the globe, solidifying Taronga's status as a key player in global conservation. Check out Taronga’s Strategic Plan 2021–2025 here. To discover more about Taronga Conservation Society Australia, you can find them on the Green Travel Guide.