A further 23 ECO Certified tourism operators have been recognised as “Green Travel Leaders” for their 10 years of certification. Ecotourism Australia CEO Ms Elissa Keenan congratulated these operators for their outstanding efforts over a significant period.
“Our new Hall of Fame entrants have been ECO Certified for more than twenty years and are among Australia’s first sustainable tourism innovators. They join 50 operators who been awarded Hall of Fame status since 1997. With travellers increasingly seeking transformative and sustainable experiences that make a difference, these operators are at the forefront of world-class sustainability leadership."
Ecotourism Australia’s ECO Certification program standard is recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). The certification not only provides operators with key business development tools and equips them to champion their dedication to sustainability in tourism, but it ensures continuous accountability towards long-term sustainability goals.
The Retreat Manager of Western Australia’s Forest Rise Retreat (a Hall of Fame entrant) Mr Benson Holland believes all businesses should be aiming for sustainability.
“ECO Certification gives our team a sense of pride and responsibility with the product we offer,” said Holland. “It also gives assurance to our guests that we are committed to a sustainable future and a great point of difference against our competitors."
Ecotourism Australia has certified more than 1,800 tours, attractions, accommodation providers and experiences across the country. 56% of certified operators have been certified for over 10 years, and just over 60 businesses have reached over 20 years of certification, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability as a core component of nature tourism businesses.
2023 is a milestone year for Ecotourism Australia, with 14 businesses noted for reaching 25 years of ECO Certification. Already recognised in the Hall of Fame, these operators are the original pioneers of ecotourism globally.
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