ECOTOURISM AUSTRALIA

Winner Conservation Award 2008

Ecotourism Australia was formed in 1991 as a not-for-profit organisation based in Brisbane and since then it has significantly contributed to long-term environmental sustainability through its ground-breaking ECO Certification Program.

It is the World's first, 'triple bottom line' programme for the ecotourism industry that certifies tourism products, assuring that they are backed by a commitment to best practice in ecological sustainability, natural area management and the provision of quality ecotourism experiences. The operators are rated according to three components: Nature-based Tourism, Ecotourism and Advanced Ecotourism.

In addition to the ECO Certification Programme, the EcoGuide Australia Certification Programme provides a credential, endorsing the recipient as a guide who will deliver an authentic, environmentally responsible, and professional ecotourism experience.

Ecotourism Australia is currently developing a Climate Change module to help facilitate a positive change in tourism practices in response to this challenge. Climate Change Certification will be available for ecotourism operators, as well as the broader tourism industry.