Queensland Ecotourism Plan 2003-2008 - Tourism Queensland

Ecotourism principles
Natural setting
Ecotourism is based in the natural environment, with a focus on natural and cultural heritage.
Conservation and sustainable management of the natural environment are essential to
planning, development, management and marketing of ecotourism.
Education and interpretation
Environmental education and interpretation is the key to creating an enjoyable and meaningful
ecotourism experience, and is one of the key points of differentiation between ecotourism and
other tourism products. Successful interpretive components of ecotourism products will foster
appreciation and support for conservation efforts, local communities and culture. This will
realise the greater potential of ecotourism as a vehicle for an increased community
commitment to the principles of ESD.
Visitor satisfaction
Visitor satisfaction with the ecotourism experience is essential to the ecotourism industry’s
long-term viability. Accurate information about ecotourism opportunities at a particular
destination should be available for people planning holidays. The ecotourism experience should
meet or exceed realistic visitor expectations.
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Product marketing
Visitors should have realistic expectations and understanding of potential tourism experiences
to help them choose a holiday and product that is suitable for their needs and desired
experiences. Responsible marketing will inform potential visitors of available and appropriate
activities in particular areas. Responsible marketing of ecotourism opportunities is the
responsibility of the ecotourism industry and protected area management agencies. Effective
and responsible marketing of ecotourism opportunities can be used as a form of visitor
management – creating realistic expectations and an understanding of allowable and
acceptable behaviour while visiting sensitive natural areas.
Ecotourism accreditation and certification
Accreditation and certification programs can provide an industry led approach to developing
and implementing ecotourism best practice. Accreditation and certification of ecotourism
products can provide: tourists and the travel trade with a recognisable and authentic
ecotourism product; natural area managers and local communities with a guarantee that the
ecotourism business is operating at best practice; accredited operators with a measure of their
performance against established ecotourism criteria; and marketing advantage in attracting
consumers looking for genuine ecotourism products.
Nature and Ecotourism Accreditation Program
The Nature and Ecotourism Accreditation Program (NEAP) was developed by the Australian
tourism industry to identify genuine ecotourism and nature-tourism operators. It is a world first
accreditation program that provides industry, protected area managers and consumers with an
assurance that product accredited under NEAP is committed to providing visitors with a quality
experience. Eligibility for accreditation is based upon a number of environmental, economic
and social principles of sustainability. Ecotourism Australia currently manages the NEAP, with
accredited operators identified by three levels of accreditation – Nature Tourism, Ecotourism
and Advanced Ecotourism.