In a landmark move toward eco-conscious travel, Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ) has unveiled its first-ever Sustainability Report, detailing the region’s remarkable strides in sustainable tourism, carbon reduction, and Indigenous cultural promotion.

Leading the Way in Eco-Tourism

Since launching its “See Great, Leave Greater” brand promise in 2020, TTNQ has spearheaded numerous sustainability initiatives, reinforcing its status as Australia’s premier eco-tourism destination. The newly released 2024 Sustainability Report spotlights the region’s ambitious green objectives, recognising it as a global leader in responsible tourism.

TTNQ CEO Mark Olsen emphasized the industry’s evolution: “Travelers today expect more than just incredible experiences—they demand a sustainable approach that protects our environment and strengthens local communities.”

Record-Breaking Eco-Certifications

Tropical North Queensland now boasts 84 eco-certified operators and 191 accredited experiences, making up 21% of TTNQ’s total membership. This makes it the most eco-certified region in Australia and among the top globally.

Roadmap to Net Zero by 2050

A core priority of TTNQ’s strategy is carbon footprint reduction, with the region aiming to cut per-visitor emissions from 55kg per day to 42kg by 2032. Key initiatives include:

• Sustainable aviation fuel adoption
• Solar energy expansion among tourism businesses
• Waste reduction programs minimizing landfill contributions
• Participation in conservation projects like Reforest’s Mabi forest restoration, supporting the endangered tree kangaroo

“At least 20% of TTNQ’s members are actively tracking and offsetting their carbon emissions through localized conservation programs,” Olsen noted.

Empowering Indigenous Tourism

The First Nations Tourism Plan, launched in May 2023, has significantly expanded Indigenous tourism opportunities. Since its introduction, the number of First Nations experiences listed in the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse has grown from 12 to 32, reflecting a significant leap in cultural engagement.

TTNQ remains committed to ensuring visitors gain authentic cultural experiences and reinforces the idea that all tourism in the region takes place in the Country.

Educating Travelers & Tackling Environmental Challenges

TTNQ has ramped efforts to educate visitors on pressing environmental challenges, particularly concerning the Great Barrier Reef. By leveraging marketing campaigns and global media outreach, TTNQ informs tourists about reef conservation while promoting responsible tourism.

One standout initiative is the Guardian of the Reef program, which rewards travellers for engaging with reef conservation efforts. In 2023, the program:

• Generated $7 million in accredited product sales
• Engaged 55,000 participants
• Secured 18,000 bookings
• Reached 200 million people worldwide through over 60 global media articles valued at $20 million

A Sustainable Tourism Revolution

TTNQ’s vision is more than an industry benchmark—it is a blueprint for global sustainable tourism. Tropical North Queensland is proving that tourism can thrive without compromising the environment by integrating eco-friendly initiatives, Indigenous engagement, and carbon neutrality efforts.

“The sustainability journey is ongoing,” Olsen affirmed. “TTNQ and our members remain steadfast in ensuring that every traveler not only sees something great—but leaves knowing they have contributed to the protection of our World Heritage areas.”

Read the Full TTNQ Sustainability Report 2024: TTNQ Sustainability Report 2024.

 

 

 

Written by: Soo James

 

 

 

 

 

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