Coffs Coast has been announced by Coffs Harbour City Council and Ecotourism Australia as the first and only certified ECO Destination in NSW.
Coffs Harbour City Council spearheaded the rigorous 14-month certification process, and now the NSW coastal region is not only recognised for preserving its natural beauty, but is also sustainable in terms of giving back to the community and being culturally authentic.
To become an ECO Certified Destination, a minimum of 90 criteria points must be met based on the internationally accredited and recognised Green Destinations Standard comprising of seven main themes including:
· destination management
· nature and scenery
· environment and climate
· culture and tradition
· social wellbeing
· business and hospitality
· ecotourism focused elements
Rod Hillman, CEO at Ecotourism Australia (EA) said: “Ecotourism Australia is very proud to have Coffs Coast join our family of certified ECO Destinations and be the first destination to achieve this status in NSW.
“This internationally recognised and independently audited certification means the region is demonstrating sustainability principles in how they manage their natural and cultural assets, but it is also about how they support the tourism industry to be sustainable.
“We are very excited to also welcome three new Coffs Coast ECO certified operators into our collection of existing ECO certified operators and experiences in the region.”
Far North Queensland’s Port Douglas Daintree is the only other Australian certified destination, helping travellers support better tourism for a more sustainable future.
IMAGE: Solitary Island Marine Park/CREDIT: coffscoast.com
