As we enter 2025, it is evident that sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a business essential.
With 75% of global travellers saying they want to travel more sustainably over the next 12 months (Booking.com 2024 Sustainable Travel report), it’s clear that responsible travel is here to stay. Is your tourism business prepared to meet this growing demand? If not, now is the perfect time to act.
Inspired by our Certified operators, here are five impactful steps you can take to make your business more sustainable in the coming year, improve your reputation, and attract more eco-friendly travellers.
1) Reduce your environmental impact: Adopt energy-efficient technologies, reduce waste, and minimise water usage to lessen your environmental impact. For example, Crystal Creek Meadows (Advanced Ecotourism and ROC Certified, Green Travel Leader) in Kangaroo Valley, NSW utilises solar panels, waste management systems, and water irrigation, while also implementing regeneration programs to enhance wildlife habitats and gardens.
2) Support Local Communities: Partner with local suppliers and engage in initiatives that give back to the community. For instance, YHA Adelaide Central (Sustainable Tourism Certified) organises “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 fostering a sense of social responsibility.
3) Collaborate with First Nations Communities: Connect with First Nations people in your area to respectfully integrate their cultural heritage and stories into your offerings. Take inspiration from Ayers Rock Resort (Advanced Ecotourism and ROC Certified), where responsible tourism is deeply rooted in maintaining respectful relationships with the Anangu people and their land. By working closely with Traditional Owners, the Resort has created meaningful initiatives such as Wintjiri Wiru, a drone, laser, and light show that shares a chapter of the ancestral Mala story. They also support Indigenous education, health, employment, and tourism initiatives, demonstrating how respectful collaboration can preserve cultural heritage.
4) Offer Eco-Friendly Experiences Design activities that promote nature appreciation, and minimal environmental disruption to attract eco-conscious travellers. For instance, Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park (Ecotourism Certified and Green Travel Leader) in Victoria offers tours that educate visitors about endangered species and sustainable practices, encouraging responsible tourism while minimising environmental impact.
5) Educate Guests on Responsible Tourism: Share your sustainability practices with guests through clear communication. Include information about eco-friendly initiatives in your marketing materials throughout the customer journey as well as on-site. Highlight key actions like waste reduction, water conservation, and community engagement, showing visitors how they can contribute to sustainability during their stay. Wildlife Adventures Melbourne (Advanced Ecotourism and Climate Action Certified) has a fantastic sustainability section on their website. Check it out for inspiration.
As sustainability becomes a top priority for travellers in 2025, is your business ready to meet the growing demand? Join the movement by becoming certified with Ecotourism Australia. It’s a proven way to enhance your sustainability efforts and attract eco-conscious travellers.
Reach out today at eco@tourismaustralia.org.au or call 07 3256 6777 to start your certification journey and set your business up for success in the year ahead.