Caravanning and camping have long been cherished pastimes in Australia, offering unique experiences amidst nature’s splendor. Recognizing the need for sustainable practices in this sector, Ecotourism Australia and the Caravan Industry Association of Australia (CIAA) have announced a groundbreaking collaboration.
Their shared vision is to pave a pathway toward sustainability for caravanning and camping tourism enterprises.
This initiative is facilitated through the “Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard,” a pre-certification benchmarking tool designed to guide businesses in their sustainability endeavors, according a report by the CIAA.
The Sustainable Tourism pathway program, set to launch in late 2022, encompasses this scorecard and the ECO Certification program. The latter, recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), provides a robust framework for nature-based tourism businesses to adopt and promote sustainable practices.
The significance of this collaboration is underscored by the pivotal role caravanning plays in Australia’s tourism sector. With over 6,000 businesses operating in the caravan and camping supply chain, the industry generated a staggering $11.2 billion in visitor expenditure in 2022.
These figures highlight the immense potential and responsibility the sector holds in leading the way toward sustainable tourism.
Sustainability in tourism is multifaceted, encompassing not just environmental concerns but also socio-economic and cultural impacts. The collaboration between Ecotourism Australia and the Caravan Industry Association of Australia emphasizes these four pillars of sustainability, ensuring a holistic approach to sustainable tourism practices.
Sustainable caravanning entails harnessing solar energy, implementing efficient water usage systems, and adopting waste management solutions that minimize environmental impact. It’s about choosing caravan parks committed to sustainable practices, from recycling to using renewable energy sources.
The benefits of sustainable caravanning extend beyond environmental conservation. It contributes to the well-being of local communities, promotes responsible travel, and ensures that the pristine beauty of Australia’s landscapes is preserved for future generations.
The collaboration between Ecotourism Australia and the CIAA marks a significant step towards a sustainable future for caravanning and camping in Australia. As the industry continues to grow and evolve, sustainability will undoubtedly remain at its core, guiding its journey toward a greener, more responsible future.
