We all know that taking care of our environment is an absolute must, and there has never been a more important time to collectively become aware of how our actions are affecting the sphere.
With ‘conscious consumerism’ on the rise, the clean and green movement is gaining strong momentum and the importance of delivering value to our visitors while encouraging sustainability is becoming the norm.
Eco-tourism is ecologically sustainable tourism with a primary focus on experiencing natural areas that foster environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation.
Three local operators across our Southern Great Barrier Reef destination are providing leadership on environmental sustainability and adaption – making small changes that are having a big impact.
Capricorn Caves
Capricorn Caves, located just a short drive from Rockhampton is advanced ecotourism certified, meeting a range of criteria relating to natural area focus, environmental sustainability, education and interpretation, contribution to conservation, cultural sensitivity and their work with local communities.
As visitors explore the remarkable limestone cave systems during their tours, they can do so knowing that this iconic attraction is committed to reducing environmental impact in all of their operational procedures. In addition to sustainably managing natural resources of water and energy, the team at the Capricorn Caves have a special responsibility for protecting the property’s significant natural habitat and biodiversity.
Setting the eco-bar high with rainwater usage, recycling and many other eco-friendly practices including educating school children and providing environmental awareness programs, Capricorn Caves eco-friendly policies come naturally for the business and will ensure that the magnificent natural beauty of these 140-year-old above ground masterpieces remain in place for many more years to come.
Pumpkin Island
One of Australia’s best-kept secrets, Pumpkin Island is nestled within the Keppel Group of islands only 14 kilometres off the coast of Yeppoon on the Southern Great Barrier Reef, and in 2011 became the first private island in Australia to gain ‘carbon-positive’ status.
The tiny gem – just six hectares in total – offers eco-friendly accommodation for up to 34 guests in seven self-catering units that are powered by the wind and the sun.
Proudly obtaining Australia’s highest ecotourism certification and long-term operational permits granted by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, the island’s environmental stewardship has been recognized as best practice.
Every activity conducted on Pumpkin Island is committed to protecting, nurturing, and maintaining the critical balance between the resort and the diverse eco-system of the island and its surroundings.
This boutique resort in Keppel Bay has taken green ethos to the extreme, taking every precaution to protect and preserve the pristine underwater backyard on its doorstep – the Southern Great Barrier Reef.
Keppel Dive
The team at Keppel Dive are passionate about promoting and leading by example in sustainable tourism by providing educational experiences and having as little of an impact on the Southern Great Barrier Reef and environment as possible.
The waters around Great Keppel Island are home to some of the most unspoilt reefs that the entire Great Barrier Reef has to offer, and Keppel Dive are committed to preserving and presenting the Reef’s colourful past, present and future.
With a primary focus on protecting our ocean, Keppel Dive assures travellers choosing to snorkel or SCUBA throughout the beautiful underwater world that they are doing so with staff whose commitment is focused on sustainable practices and a dedication to marine conservation and education.
The top-class snorkel and dive adventure are also fortunate to have a Master Reef Guide on board, who is a leading interpreter and storyteller, sharing the wonders of this World Heritage Area with the rest of the world.
In this modern world, if you are not thinking about the environmental footprint you are leaving in the sand on your next holiday, you are in the minority. If you are ready to mingle with nature, get up close and personal with the earth and develop a fresh sense of connection to the world around you, plan your next holiday in our backyard!
www.visitcapricorn.com.au
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