What is ECO Destination?
Our ECO Destination
In April 2024, Townsville was awarded ECO Destination certification at Nature Tourism Level by Ecotourism Australia. This incredible feat could not have been achieved without the long list of community-led programs and businesses that are taking big (and small) steps toward progressing Townsville into a world-leading sustainable destination (featured in the Top 100 worldwide).
Townsville is the third destination in Queensland and the ninth in Australia to become an ECO Destination, solidifying the region as a sustainability and ecotourism leader. Council was a recipient of the Queensland Government Department of Tourism and Sport’s Eco-Certified Tourism Destination Grant in 2022 to expand their destination sustainability certification.
What is ECO Destination?
- This benefits everyone in our place (local, state and international)
- Benefits residents and how they visit and perceive their own city
- Provides new opportunities for residents and visitors
- Local people like to fish, camp, exercise, relax and recreate in nature
- They are surrounded by our excellent environments and nature
- It is formal recognition of Townsville’s authenticity and journey in sustainability
What do we mean by authenticity?
- We are actively restoring our environment and that can be seen
- We are building business opportunities that support environmental outcomes
- We are providing opportunities to reduce costs to business and industry
Lots of personal collaboration in our community
- Lots of volunteers and groups working together to reduce impact on environment
- People want to see and support our local wildlife
- There are human health benefits
What is the Destination Certification?
- Townsville region was awarded ECO Destination certification at Nature Tourism Level by Ecotourism Australia
- Assesses 81 criteria centred on the four pillars of sustainability
- The Certification is recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council
- Townsville joins a network of more than 200 international destinations
- Townsville is the third destination in QLD and the ninth in Australia to become an ECO Destination, solidifying the region as a leader in sustainable ecotourism
Ecodestination Framework
The City continues to grow environmentally along with modern industries, information technology and sustainability initiatives. Council is working to amplify the opportunities available for nature-based, regenerative tourism experiences that integrate global best practices.
25+ Years of Sustainability Practice
Council held its first ecotourism workshops in 1998 and produced an ecotourism strategy in 2000. Innovative environmental projects continue to be embedded in the foundation of Townsville.
Environmental Planning, Interpretation and Strategy
Council has supported management and conservation plans across decades. In the last few years, Sustainable Destination has been incorporated into:
- TCC Corporate Plan (20-24)
- TCC Annual Operating Plan (22-23)
- TSV Reef Guardian Plan (20-24)
- TCC Environmental Policy
Townsville's local ecotourism operators
The region is committed to boosting the sustainability of its tourism product and eight local businesses are Certified through Ecotourism Australia’s globally recognised business programs. One of Townsville’s top attractions, Billabong Sanctuary, holds Advanced Ecotourism Certification and is part of Ecotourism Australia’s Hall of Fame for more than 20 years of continuous ECO Certification. Additionally, Council operates the Advanced Ecotourism Certified Eco Catchment Tours, providing educational and interactive tours to enhance the local community’s connection to the area’s diverse land and coastalscapes.
See a list of Townsville’s current eco-certified businesses via the green travel guide including:
- Townsville Eco Resort
- Townsville City Council - Eco Catchment Tours
- Billabong Sanctuary
- Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive
- Reef Ecologic
- SeaLink QLD
- Big Mama Sailing.
