Tropical North Queensland Leads Australia in Eco-Certification with 72 Active Companies

Saturday, February 17, 2024

Tropical North Queensland stands out as Australia premier eco-certified destination, boasting 72 active eco-certified companies, with an additional 27 enterprises in the certification process under Ecotourism Australia. Working in collaboration with Tourism Tropical North Queensland, stakeholders from diverse sectors such as accommodations, tour operators, hospitality venues, and Indigenous groups are developing tailored strategies aimed at achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050. Selected as one of the two regions in Queensland for phase 2 of the Queensland Tourism Climate Action Plan, Tropical North Queensland is paving the way with carbon benchmark data and actionable pathways following the successful completion of phase 1.

Highlighted below are the latest sustainable initiatives underway in the region:

1. Tropic Wings is embarking on a transformative journey by introducing 12 state-of-the-art Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) to its fleet. Securing a total project investment of $10.2 million, with a significant portion of $4.75 million backed by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), Tropic Wings marked a groundbreaking moment in January 2024 with the debut of the first three BEVs. As the pioneer tour operator in Australia integrating fully electric coaches into its tours, Tropic Wings sets a precedent for reducing carbon footprints and advocating for eco-conscious travel. These BEVs will enhance journeys to renowned destinations like the Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge, and Kuranda, offering tourists a distinctive and environmentally friendly travel experience.
2. Sailaway Port Douglas has introduced the Great Barrier Reef’s inaugural electric glass-bottom boat at the carbon-neutral Low Isles, a mere hour from Port Douglas. Powered by renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, the e-tender facilitates guest transportation to the island and conducts reef viewing tours alongside the Sailaway marine biologist. As a Climate Action Leader, Sailaway offsets carbon emissions by contributing to local reforestation efforts within the World Heritage rainforest.
3. Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort has achieved a notable milestone by becoming the first resort in North Queensland to earn Ecotourism Australia’s Sustainable Tourism Certification. Acknowledged for its comprehensive commitment to environmental, social, cultural, and sustainable management practices, the resort’s certification underscores its adherence to international sustainability standards. Situated at the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef, the resort has implemented innovative initiatives such as a biodiversity reef restoration program, collaboration with ecoSPIRITS, and an Indigenous employment scheme. Launched by Ecotourism Australia in late 2023, this certification underscores the escalating demand for sustainable tourism experiences while urging accommodations to spearhead global sustainability efforts.
4. Nestled in the North Queensland outback, Mt Mulligan Lodge has attained the esteemed Ecotourism Australia – Eco Certified Advanced Tourism accreditation, solidifying its position as a frontrunner in sustainable travel. This recognition underscores the lodge’s dedication to minimizing its environmental impact, preserving local ecosystems, and promoting responsible tourism practices. Guests can anticipate an immersive and eco-friendly experience amidst the pristine wilderness.
5. Cairns Airport has implemented an Environmental Strategy encompassing initiatives such as collecting food scraps and coffee grounds for local community gardens to enhance food production. Recognized for its commitment to sustainability, Cairns Airport received accolades, including being named Airport of the Year twice in 2023. Winning the Major Airport of the Year category at the Australian Airports Association (AAA) National Airport Industry Awards and securing the Airport of the Year title at the Australian Aviation Awards, Cairns Airport also earned the Airport Excellence Award for Sustainability. This recognition stems from its groundbreaking Sustainability Linked Loan agreement, featuring a unique target aimed at regenerating threatened species, marking a significant stride towards environmental stewardship.

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