Introduction

Ecotourism Australia and its subsidiary Sustainable Tourism Australia has proclaimed 2010 the Year of Responsible, Ethical and Sustainable Tourism. In line with Ecotourism Australia’s mission, this Year is both the continuation of nearly two decades of supporting and advocating for environmentally responsible tourism and the starting point of a new strategy.

Goal

The main goal of the Year will be to demonstrate the benefits of responsible, ethical and sustainable tourism in Australia. As the world becomes more and more concerned with the issues of climate change and environmental degradation, tourism in Australia must rise to the new challenges at local, national, regional and international levels.

Strategy

The success of the Year depends to a great extent on accepting the fundamental principle of the tourism industry relies on:

a) the environment for delivery of exceptional tourism experiences, and

b) the reputation of Australia as a place on unique natural and cultural assets.

Four major themes have been identified:

· Promoting the tourism industry leaders in environmental and cultural best practice;

· Building a framework for commonly shared values;

· Strengthening the education of the tourist to support responsible, ethical and sustainable choices;

· Fostering dialogue for the development and support of a responsible, ethical and sustainable tourism industry in Australia.

International Context

· 2010 is the UN declared International Year of Biodiversity

· Ecotourism Australia is an approved organisation for official World Responsible Tourism Day activities (November 10)

· 2010 is the UNESCO declared International Year for the Rapprochement of Cultures

Implementation

A number of specific activities are already being developed.

· Green Travel Leaders (ECO certified 10+years)

· Tourism Forum for the Future

· Global ECO Conference 2010

· World Responsible Tourism Day (November 10)

Partners

In view of ensuring the broad visibility of the Year and its greatest possible impact at the local, national, regional and international levels, Ecotourism Australia is going to strengthen cooperation with its partners.

Contacts

You are invited to inform us at the address below of the activities you are planning in order to celebrate the 2010 Year for Responsible, Ethical and Sustainable Tourism, and the goals you intend to achieve through them.  A logo designed especially for the Year is available for use by approved partners.

Kym Cheatham
Chief Executive
Ecotourism Australia and Sustainable Tourism Australia
Email: ceo@ecotourism.org.au