ECO Certification
What is the Eco Certification Program?
The ECO Certification logo is a globally recognized brand that assists travellers to choose and experience a genuine and authentic tour, attraction, cruise or accommodation that is environmentally, socially and economically sustainable. The ECO Certification program assures travellers that certified products are backed by a strong, well-managed commitment to sustainable practices and provides high-quality nature-based tourism experiences.
The ECO Certification Program is a world first. It has been developed to address the need to identify genuine nature and ecotourism operators. It is also now being exported to the rest of the world as the International ECO Certification Program.
When choosing your boat tour it is reassuring to know that many operators have gone to the trouble of ensuring that their vessel is operated within the guidelines of the Eco Certification program. The definition of ecotourism, adopted by Ecotourism Australia is:
Ecotourism is ecologically sustainable tourism with a primary focus on experiencing natural areas that foster environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation.
The 3 levels of ECO Certification
Nature Tourism: Tourism in a natural area that leaves minimal impact on the environment.
Ecotourism: Tourism in a natural area that offers interesting ways to learn about the environment with an operator that uses resources wisely, contributes to the conservation of the environment and helps local communities.
Advanced Ecotourism: Australia's leading and most innovative ecotourism products, providing an opportunity to learn about the environment with an operator who is committed to achieving best practice when using resources wisely, contributing to the conservation of the environment and helping local communities.
There's no doubt that the best way to visit Hervey Bay is aboard an eco-certified Whale Watching Tour! Your conscience, and the planet, will thank you for it later!
Check out our array of advanced eco-certified whale tours, such as the Pacific Whale Foundation experience, or chat with one of our friendly staff to find out more today!
