sustainable tourism reserach project noosa biosphere - presentation 2 -150413
DESCRIPTION
The objective of this research project is to identify opportunities to promote Noosa Biosphere Reserve as a sustainable tourism destination. Included is a review of the current literature and information regarding sustainable tourism trends globally and how this relates to Noosa’s tourism industry. Eco-certification programs that are currently available to Noosa tourism operators have been researched and summarised, including the process and cost involved in gaining certification. Qualitative research was also conducted by way of an industry online survey of Tourism Noosa members, to gain an insight into the level of certification currently held by tourism businesses within Noosa Biosphere, business owner’s knowledge of certification programs and/or their desire to learn more about eco-certification. Questions were also asked relating to the business owners knowledge of Noosa Biosphere, their perceptions of what the designation means to them and if they include any information about the Biosphere in their marketing material to visitors. They were also asked about their current involvement in Noosa Biosphere Ltd activities and/or their desire to be involved. Through secondary research interviews with, a range of eco-certified and non-certified operators further information was gathered about tourism business owner’s motivations, experiences and knowledge of eco-certification programs. The research results highlighted that within Noosa’s tourism industry there is a high level of interest shown by tourism operators in moving towards more sustainable business practices. Many are taking action through the implementation of a wide array of environmental and sustainable activities. Also, while currently there is not a significantly high level of eco-certification within Noosa’s tourism industry there is a strong foundation and potential to grow the level of certification as the majority of non-certified operators stated they were interested in learning more about eco-certification. The additional research interviews conducted further highlighted that there are many businesses within the tourism industry that are implementing innovative, best practice environmental management techniques and activities but who have not sought certification or recognition. This again demonstrates that there is potential to educate, encourage and support these businesses to achieve eco-certification or at a minimum their achievements can be showcased and promoted, both to consumers and to other tourism operators to enhance the marketability of Noosa Biosphere as a sustainable tourism destination.TRANSCRIPT
Opportunities for developing a sustainable tourism industry within
Noosa Biosphere Reserve
A Sustainable Tourism Industry
• Who – Cathie Withyman & Jamie Knight
• What - Aim of the project
• How – Review / Research / Recommend
• Why - Do we have a sustainable tourism industry to promote under the Noosa Biosphere umbrella?
Tourism Research Project
Sustainable Tourism:Tourism that seeks to minimise negative
impacts & maximise positive impacts
‘Tourism that takes into account the full, current & future economic, social and environmental impacts. It addresses the needs of visitors, the industry, environment and host communities’ UNEP & UNWTO
Ecotourism‘Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves welfare of local people’ TIES
• Nature based • Is a segment of the industry• All sectors can strive to be more
sustainable
Certification of Tourism Businesses
Mechanism for ensuring that an activity or tourism product meets certain standards
Useful tool for businesses to plan, implement and validate their sustainability efforts and achievements
There are 6 Certification Programs that are applicable to Noosa’s Tourism Industry
• ecoBiz• Ecotourism Australia – Eco Certification• EarthCheck• AAA Tourism – Eco Friendly Star• Carbon Reduction Institute• Climate Action Australia
The Research Findings• High level of interest from operators to
become more sustainable – 66%• Currently low level of certification but high
level of interest in learning more – 51%• Lots of innovation and enhanced business
practices towards sustainability that can be showcased
Where to from hereThe report recommendations:Detail a range of opportunities to support and promote sustainable tourism
Top Priority – Strong partnership with NB Tourism Noosa and the industry*** Welcome to Noosa Biosphere Kit for operators ***
A Sustainable Tourism Industry
Questions?