It seems that Tasmania’s tourism industry has set the ambitious goal of becoming a carbon-neutral destination in just four short years. With ecotourism on the rise, it seems like a natural choice for an island state that is almost a nature reserve in totality.
They are already one of only a handful of jurisdictions in the world to achieve 100 per cent self-sufficiency in clean, reliable and affordable renewable energy. Thus making them a leader Australia’s transition to a low-emissions economy.
The local industry will be supported to achieve this goal with $1.5 million from the Tasmanian Government. This cash influx will be used to enable tourism operators to undertake carbon audits and set the local industry on the path of being carbon neutral.
READ MORE: Tasmania makes our list for the top unique travel destinations in Australia
The announcement comes at a time the industry is recovering after the pandemic, but looking to the future for a sustainable industry.
What is ecotourism?
Ecotourism is a growing form of tourism that emphasizes responsible travel in the form of preservation of the natural habit and ecosystem of the place you travel to. The destinations are usually fragile, and relatively undisturbed natural areas such as Tasmania or the Amazon. Most of the tourist destinations have some programmes in place to conserve the environment or sustain the wellbeing of the local people.
These are rarely mass tours, but carefully planned excursions that often have an educational element to them. An ecotourism holiday, by definition, is a low impact affair and requires responsible tour operators and the entire local tourist industry to do their part in protecting the local ecosystem.
Why Tasmania?
With ecotourism becoming more prevalent amongst travellers, having a natural paradise with an eco-conscious local tourism industry will likely push Tasmamua to the top of the places to visit. will definitely be one of the reasons for Tasmania to be a bucket-list destination when the skies reopen.
The island state is already a well-known tourist spot and the natural beauty is captivating. It has a thriving cultural scene as well and is known for its fresh catch and amazing local distilleries and wineries.
For those looking for a mix of activities, the capital city of Hobart is home to one of the art galleries as well as having a fascinating convict history. Gourmands can revel in the fresh apple cider, cheeses, wine and oysters, while beach-goers have the luxury of experiencing the powder-white beaches and laid-back luxury. Looking for adventure?
What to do in Tasmania
To help get you started, we’re sharing some of the eco-friendly tourist activities available in Tasmania right now.
Wilderness tours
Pennicott Wilderness Journeys with tours that are 100% carbon offset, and utilise the measurement of energy use, water consumption and waste output through the internationally recognised EarthCheck system.
The tours are centered around different parts of Australia, but within the island state, they offer seafood tours, cruises and more, to help you explore this nature wonderland.
Get up close and personal with Tasmania’s wildlife
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary with initiatives such as using 100% organic cleaning products and replacing plastic bottles with glass alternatives, providing a safer environment for wildlife within their premises.
Bonorong is not a zoo – they are Tasmania’s largest 24/7 Wildlife Rescue Service and operate a volunteer-force that rehabilitates injured animals and reintroduces them back into the wild.
Walk your way through Tasmania’s beautiful landscape
The Great Walks of Tasmania, which has a collection of iconic walking experiences across Tasmania’s beautiful environments dedicated to preserving and caring for our untouched wilderness.
They offer a collection of independent guided walk companies offering unforgettable experiences in the island state’s most inspiring and extraordinary locations. They provide excellent guiding, unique accommodation and offer delicious local food and wine along the way. Together their walks cover over 300km of Tasmania’s prime walking tracks.
Carbon neutral kayaking
Roaring 40s Kayaking, which reduces carbon emissions of its tours, and encourages its guests to tackle climate change.
Much of the Tasman Peninsula is protected as national park and offers a spectacular kayaking destination. Tourists will kayak past Australia’s highest sea cliffs, amazing blowholes and deep sea caves.
The natural abundance is clear with marine life and sea birds guaranteed sight on your trip. On land, there are options for short walks including to explore fascinating coastal rock formations such as Tessellated Pavement.
