Tourism is a major contributor to the Australian economy, generating $73 billion in consumption of Australian products each year. This industry sector earns $17 billion in exports each year, and generates 5.6% of total Australian employment with over 350,000 tourism-related businesses in this country (Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources, 2005).

There are many niches within the tourism industry, and in recent times consumers have become more aware and better educated towards their holiday options and associated impacts. Ecotourism was originally designed as a viable financial alternative to extractive industries and farming for poor nations who were facing ongoing environmental degradation.

To provide a researched local benchmark for tourism experiences, Ecotourism Australia was founded in 1991, and remains the peak professional body providing information-backed accreditation in this field. Under the Eco Certification Program, ecotourism is defined as:

“Ecologically sustainable tourism with a primary focus on experiencing natural areas that fosters environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation.”

Ecotourism design, creation and operation should provide benefits to the triple bottom line. This approach ensures that the weight of importance is balanced between financial, environmental and social factors.

References

Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources (2005) Tourism Snapshot, Australian Government