In a major boost for tourism, Bundaberg Regional Council is seeking Eco-Destination certification to recognise the area's green credentials.
Ecotourism Australia holds internationally recognised guidelines for environmentally sustainable destinations.
The certification is one of Council’s 2020 Advocacy Priorities, with only four other locations in Australia successfully gaining the accreditation so far.
Mayor Jack Dempsey said with vast and varied natural attractions, Eco Destination status was a logical step for the Bundaberg Region.
“This certification will help us effectively promote our region to the increasing number of travellers seeking sustainable travel experiences,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“We’re already headed in the right direction with a number of eco-certified operators in our region.
“Now we’re looking for more operators to get on board to establish the program in this area.
“It’s the stamp of approval that we are who we say we are – an authentic destination for environmentally aware visitors.”
Bundaberg Tourism CEO Katherine Reid said sustainability was at the forefront of the experience offered to visitors in the Bundaberg Region.
“In Bundaberg, we are reef custodians, and we have a strong community sense of responsibility for the land, for the turtle population and for the Great Barrier Reef,” Ms Reid said.
“Bundaberg Tourism and the region’s tourism industry is committed to establishing sustainable holiday experiences that visitors can connect with, and contribute to, through their actions on holidays.
“The region is led by operators who have implemented world-class tourism destination management practices, including Lady Musgrave Experience and Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort, the ranger-led Mon Repos Turtle Encounters, and the Southern Great Barrier Reef’s only mainland eco resort Kellys Beach Resort, to name just a few.
“Eco Destination Certification is an incredible opportunity to formally acknowledge Bundaberg’s historical and future commitment to sustainable practices and providing high-quality nature-based tourism experiences within the region.”
The Eco Destination certification is designed to assure visitors that a destination is backed by a strong, well-managed commitment to sustainable practices and is capable of delivering high-quality nature-based tourism experiences.
Bundaberg Regional Council has applied for Eco Destination certification and must now work through the assessment process of sustainability criteria.
As the region meets criteria it will gain points towards certification.
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“In a major boost for tourism, Bundaberg Regional Council is seeking Eco-Destination certification to recognise the area’s green credentials”
Time for Bundaberg Tourism and Bundaberg Chamber of Commerce to speak out against the proposed coal mine near Bundaberg!
We can’t be known for both. One has to be more important.