Tourism Council WA, the peak industry body for tourism in Western Australia, has launched a new program aimed at reducing carbon emissions within the tourism sector. The initiative, titled “Sustainable Tourism WA”, is designed to help tourism operators across the state implement sustainable practices and reduce their environmental impact.
The program comes as the tourism industry faces increasing pressure to address its contribution to climate change. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, tourism is responsible for around 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions. In Western Australia, tourism accounts for a significant portion of the state’s carbon footprint, with transportation, accommodation, and activities all contributing to emissions.
“Sustainable Tourism WA” will provide participating operators with resources, training, and support to help them adopt more sustainable practices. This includes guidance on reducing energy consumption, waste management, water conservation, and promoting eco-friendly transportation options. The program will also encourage operators to offset their carbon emissions through projects such as reforestation or renewable energy initiatives.
In addition to helping operators reduce their environmental impact, the program aims to raise awareness among tourists about the importance of sustainable travel. By promoting operators who have committed to sustainability, Tourism Council WA hopes to attract environmentally conscious travelers and encourage them to make more sustainable choices during their visit to Western Australia.
CEO of Tourism Council WA, Evan Hall, emphasized the importance of the program in addressing the industry’s environmental impact. “As the custodians of Western Australia’s natural beauty, it is our responsibility to ensure that tourism is sustainable and minimizes its impact on the environment,” he said. “By launching ‘Sustainable Tourism WA’, we are taking a proactive approach to reducing carbon emissions and protecting our state’s unique ecosystems for future generations.”
The program has already attracted interest from a number of tourism operators, with several signing up to participate in the initiative. With the support of industry stakeholders and government agencies, Tourism Council WA hopes to expand the program to reach a wider audience and make a meaningful impact on reducing carbon emissions within the tourism sector.
As the tourism industry continues to grow in Western Australia, initiatives like “Sustainable Tourism WA” will play a crucial role in ensuring that growth is sustainable and environmentally responsible. By working together to reduce carbon emissions, tourism operators can help protect the state’s natural beauty and contribute to a more sustainable future for all.
