There are a number of examples where tourism businesses are identifying ways to reduce their carbon footprint and in the process adopting sustainable practices.
Below are examples of Western Australian operators adopting greener practices. These businesses are now part of a growing list of tourism operators and providers, working to reduce their emissions and playing their part in reducing the impact of climate change. Check out their websites for more details.
The Esplanade Hotel Fremantle promotes and undertakes a commitment to the environment through its "Living a Cleaner Dream" policy.
Novotel Langley Perth went about implementing energy and water saving initiatives.
All Seasons Kalgoorlie participated in a water saving and energy efficiency retrofit program in 2003.
Cullen Wines became the first winery in Australia to make 100 percent of their air travel and fuel usage emissions carbon neutral.
Sal Salis - Ningaloo Reef (PDF 146KB) is a high quality tented camp within Cape Range National Park. This property lowered their energy consumption by relying on solar power for all lighting needs. Sal Salis also has a ‘buy local’ policy and where ever possible goods are purchased in the nearest town, Exmouth.
Karijini Eco Retreat owned by the Gumala Aboriginal Corporation (GAC), developed by Eco Constructions and managed by The Eco Company (Ecomodation), the Karijini Eco Retreat was borne out of the strategic vision of GAC to develop a portfolio of substantial and diversified commercial assets. The development was an essential part of the long term commitment of Gumala to bring socio-economic benefits to the region whilst acknowledging the wider tourism industry benefits.
APT Purnululu Camp exclusive to Kimberley Wilderness Adventures, the award-winning Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge is located on Bellburn Creek in the heart of World Heritage-listed Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) National Park. This state-of-the-art Wilderness Lodge raises the standard of tented accommodation in the Kimberley to a new level.
The Comfort Inn Wentworth Plaza is more than just a well-patronised, heritage-listed hotel. With two bars, two restaurants and nearly 100 accommodation rooms, it's a vibrant social meeting place as well as a great example of the cost savings that can be achieved from taking a proactive approach to building maintenance and reducing energy consumption.
Adventure Out Australia were announced winners of the 2009 Qantas Award for Excellence in Sustainable Tourism. The company exemplified a strong commitment to sustainable and innovative business practices.
These are but a few examples. Has your tourism business put in place strategies to mitigate and/or adapt to reduce carbon emissions? We'd love to hear from you. Please forward your details to strategicpolicy@westernaustralia.com.