Ecotourism Australia, in partnership with Tourism Australia, has launched the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard program. This program is open to all tourism businesses wishing to start their sustainability journey in a simple and affordable way.
According to Booking.com (2022), 81% of travellers confirm that sustainable travel is important to them, while research from Expedia (2022) found that 7 in 10 consumers have avoided a travel destination or transportation option due to scepticism that the commitment to sustainable practices was true.
The Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard program is designed for all businesses and operators in the tourism supply chain. The program provides businesses with a scorecard that measures where a business is at on their sustainability journey at a point in time and leverages Ecotourism Australia’s well established sustainability criteria that is recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.
Ecotourism Australia CEO, Elissa Keenan, said there had never been a more significant shift towards sustainability.
“Travellers needs are changing, we know international tourists are actively seeking tours, accommodation and attractions that can demonstrate their commitment to responsible tourism.
“Through this partnership with Tourism Australia, we are delighted to launch this pathway program to support all tourism businesses start their sustainability journey”.
All businesses involved in the tourism supply chain can participate, which may include (but not limited to) cafes, restaurants, bars, breweries, tour providers, attractions, accommodation providers, events and festivals, travel agents, visitor centres and tourism consultants.
The Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard complements Ecotourism Australia’s existing certification programs, which have been running for over 30 years. Businesses that complete the scorecard and wish to continue their sustainability journey can now also apply for Ecotourism Australia’s new Sustainable Tourism Certification to receive official recognition for their sustainable initiatives and practices.
Ecotourism Australia has long been a pioneer within the tourism industry, supporting, promoting and recognising tourism operators for their commitment to holistic sustainable tourism, whilst creating the world’s first eco certification program.
More information is available at: https://ecotourism.org.au/sustainability/businesses/strive-4-sustainability-scorecard/