What is sustainable tourism?
Sustainable tourism provides an exciting and important opportunity to transform your business for the better, while benefiting the community, environment, and positively impacting the NT’s visitor experience.
Sustainable tourism aims to preserve natural resources, protect biodiversity, promote cultural heritage, and support local economies. It encompasses responsible tourism Tooltip button, ecotourism Tooltip button and regenerative tourism Tooltip button
It is both an opportunity and a responsibility and all Territory tourism businesses are encouraged to get involved. Committing to sustainability is important, regardless of how big or small your actions are. What matters most is that you start the journey and then continue to take steps forward to improve.
Travellers are interested in sustainable travel options
90% are looking for sustainable options
Why become sustainable?
Many travellers now expect and preference sustainable travel options. By making positive change, you will gain a competitive advantage and benefit from increased bookings, reduced operating costs and increased customer satisfaction.
Our aspirations:
The Northern Territory is a compelling destination for authentic sustainable travel.
NT tourism is a positive driver for sustainable development and the conservation of our natural and cultural landscape and heritage.
Become sustainable
Carbon footprint
Your carbon footprint refers to the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere due to the activities and operations of your business.
Waste and procurement
Waste that goes to landfill decomposes anaerobically, releasing emissions Tooltip button and contributing to your changing climate.
Transport
Finding ways to decarbonise the transportation associated with your business and its visitors will be key to improving your sustainability impact and aligning with the NT’s target of net zero Tooltip button emissions Tooltip button by 2050.
Energy
On average, Territorians use more electricity than the rest of Australia, mainly due to our climate. While we can’t change the weather, we can make changes to help reduce energy consumption.
Community and culture
Sustainable tourism means leaving the destination in a better condition than when you arrived. When it comes to the local community and culture, it is important to be respectful, educated and committed, and enable your visitors to do the same.
Water
Water efficiencies are best made by focusing on the areas where you can make the biggest difference and by providing ways for your visitors to learn about and contribute to water savings.
Natural environment and climate
It is everyone’s responsibility to conserve, protect and regenerate the natural habitat in the area in which they travel, live, and operate a business.
Accreditations and certifications
Measure and manage
It is important to set up and maintain effective governance and management practices in your business, including your environmental, socio-economic and cultural impacts.
Promote your actions
It is important to clearly and accurately communicate your sustainability actions and information to assure travellers of your credentials and commitments.
Explore case studies
Many sustainability goals can be achievable through a simple change in process or behaviour.
Others require long term planning and investment.
Find out how these tourism businesses are becoming sustainable.