Friday, February 18, 2011

Protecting natural assets - protecting tourism

The Tourism and Transport Forum, a peak tourism organisation points out:


"In 2006 domestic and international nature-based tourists spent approximately $23 billion during their travels in Australia."
"... the task of securing Australia’s globally important biodiversity has never been more urgent .."  


(Tourism and Transport Forum Australia Natural Tourism Partnerships Action Plan (2007) available at http://www.ttf.org.au/Content/ntpi07.aspx




Tourism needs healthy ecosystems and thriving wildlife; marine parks will deliver a healthy and sustainable marine environment

Tourists are seeking unique natural tourism experiences
  • Australia’s environment is arguably its primary tourism asset: South Australia is seen as unspoilt, authentic, with unique natural experiences
  • World-wide there is a growing demand for tourism with positive conservation outcomes: tourists are increasingly aware of the need for low impact tourism that doesn’t harm the environment
  • There is increased desire for different types of tourism experiences such as conservation volunteer programs, responsible holiday options and authentic natural or indigenous experiences that are unique to a destination
  • Experiences in other states have shown that marine parks can have a positive impact on tourism and recreational industries and businesses
  • Recreational fishing can benefit from marine parks through creating a more satisfying experience for anglers
  • Marine Parks can contribute to vibrant and unique recreational and tourism experiences: sailing, snorkelling, diving, educational experiences, bird watching, wildlife interactions, whale and dolphin watching , kayaking, swimming, fishing