Green is our Gold prompts a promise

Tourism Australia has launched a new Green Is Our Gold initiative, encouraging the tourism industry across the country to protect environments, cultures, and communities.

And it is inviting all Australian operators to get behind the Green and Gold Promise.

For making the promise, they gain access to a toolkit to help them share five principles with their guests — and we go through those below.

The initiative comes alongside data showing 77 per cent of global travellers value sustainability.

“There is no better time to lead the way,” says a spokesperson for Tourism Australia.

“The Green and Gold Promise is a formal commitment to this shared vision for sustainable tourism.

“Those who commit to the promise are asked to embrace five ‘Green and Gold Principles’ that guide responsible visitor behaviour and make for more sustainable tourism experiences.

The Green and Gold Promise

The spokesperson explains: “Whether we’re protecting the precious ecosystems of our backyard, teaching visitors how to tread lightly, or passing on the knowledge of the world’s oldest living cultures, caring for our country is ingrained in what we do every day.

“That includes caring for our visitors too, to ensure everyone has the opportunity to experience Australia safely and sustainably.”

The Green and Gold Principles

Five principles have been developed to help people be more respectful travellers.

+ Celebrate community “The best part of an Australian visit is the people you meet. Shop local, engage with the communities you visit, and you’ll leave with new mates aplenty.”

+ Embrace culture “Australia’s cultural diversity stretches from ancient songlines to city laneways. Immerse yourself in it all. Honour our First Nations cultures, embrace our diversity, and you’ll leave with new knowledge and new friends.”

+ Preserve Place “In Australia you’ll find some of the most unspoilt landscapes on Earth. Help keep them that way by minimising your impact wherever you go.

+ Respect Wildlife “Australia has some of the most unique animals on the planet. Take as many photos of them as you like but remember to give them their space and respect their homes.”

+ Take Care “We look out for one another in Australia, but it’s important to take care of yourself, too. Listen to the land, respect it, and always put safety first.”

tourism.australia.com