Responsible Tourism Practices for Travelling in Australia
Australia is a land of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. As travellers, we have a responsibility to minimise our impact and contribute positively to the communities we visit. This guide provides practical tips on how to travel responsibly in Australia, ensuring that future generations can enjoy its wonders.
1. Reducing Your Carbon Footprint
Travelling often involves transportation that contributes significantly to carbon emissions. Here's how you can minimise your footprint:
Choose slower travel options: Consider taking trains or buses instead of flying, especially for shorter distances. These options often offer scenic routes and a more immersive experience.
Fly direct: Direct flights use less fuel than connecting flights. If possible, choose direct routes to your destination.
Offset your carbon emissions: Many airlines and travel companies offer carbon offsetting programmes. Invest in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions to compensate for your travel footprint. You can also learn more about Detours and our commitment to sustainable practices.
Pack light: The heavier your luggage, the more fuel the plane needs to burn. Pack only what you need and consider using a reusable luggage scale to avoid overweight baggage fees.
Use public transport: Once you arrive at your destination, utilise public transport like buses, trains, and trams. Many Australian cities have efficient and affordable public transport systems.
Walk or cycle: Explore cities and towns on foot or by bicycle. This is a great way to discover hidden gems and reduce your carbon emissions. Many cities offer bike-sharing programmes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Assuming all carbon offsetting programmes are equal: Research the credibility and effectiveness of carbon offsetting programmes before investing. Look for certifications and transparent reporting.
Ignoring the carbon footprint of activities: Consider the environmental impact of activities like helicopter tours or off-road driving. Choose eco-friendly alternatives where possible.
2. Supporting Local Businesses and Economies
Tourism can be a powerful force for economic development. By supporting local businesses, you can help create jobs and strengthen communities.
Eat at local restaurants: Sample regional cuisine and support local farmers and producers by dining at locally owned restaurants. Avoid chain restaurants when possible.
Shop at local markets and artisan shops: Purchase souvenirs and gifts from local markets and artisan shops. This supports local craftspeople and helps preserve traditional skills.
Stay in locally owned accommodation: Choose locally owned hotels, guesthouses, or bed and breakfasts over large international chains. This ensures that your money stays within the community.
Hire local guides and tour operators: Engage local guides and tour operators for your excursions. They have in-depth knowledge of the area and can provide unique insights into the local culture and environment. Consider what Detours offers in terms of locally-led experiences.
Buy locally made products: Support local industries by purchasing locally made products, such as wine, cheese, or crafts. Look for labels that indicate the product is made in Australia.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Bargaining aggressively: While it's acceptable to negotiate prices in some cultures, avoid bargaining aggressively with local vendors. Remember that they are often trying to make a living.
Buying counterfeit products: Avoid purchasing counterfeit products, as this supports illegal activities and undermines local businesses.
3. Respecting Indigenous Culture and Heritage
Australia has a rich Indigenous culture that dates back tens of thousands of years. It's essential to respect and learn about this culture during your travels.
Learn about Indigenous history and culture: Before your trip, research the history and culture of the Indigenous people in the areas you plan to visit. This will help you appreciate their connection to the land.
Visit Indigenous cultural centres: Many Indigenous communities have cultural centres that offer educational programmes, tours, and workshops. These centres provide valuable insights into Indigenous culture and traditions.
Support Indigenous-owned businesses: Purchase artwork, crafts, and other products from Indigenous-owned businesses. This helps support Indigenous communities and preserve their cultural heritage.
Seek permission before photographing or filming: Always seek permission before photographing or filming Indigenous people or sacred sites. Respect their privacy and cultural protocols.
Be mindful of sacred sites: Avoid entering or disturbing sacred sites. These sites are often of great cultural and spiritual significance to Indigenous people.
Listen respectfully to Indigenous voices: When interacting with Indigenous people, listen respectfully to their stories and perspectives. Avoid making assumptions or stereotypes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Using Indigenous symbols or imagery inappropriately: Avoid using Indigenous symbols or imagery in a way that is disrespectful or trivialises their cultural significance.
Making insensitive comments or jokes: Be mindful of your language and avoid making insensitive comments or jokes about Indigenous people or their culture.
4. Conserving Water and Energy
Australia is a dry continent, and water conservation is crucial. Energy conservation is also important for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Take shorter showers: Reduce your water consumption by taking shorter showers. Turn off the tap while you are soaping up or shampooing.
Use water sparingly: Be mindful of your water usage when brushing your teeth, washing dishes, or doing laundry. Turn off the tap when not in use.
Report leaks: Report any water leaks to your accommodation provider. Even small leaks can waste a significant amount of water over time.
Turn off lights and appliances: Turn off lights, air conditioning, and other appliances when you leave your room. Unplug chargers when they are not in use.
Choose energy-efficient appliances: If you are staying in self-catering accommodation, choose appliances that are energy-efficient.
Reuse towels and linens: Many hotels offer the option to reuse towels and linens. Take advantage of this option to reduce water and energy consumption.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Leaving the tap running while brushing your teeth: This wastes a significant amount of water. Turn off the tap while you are brushing.
Overusing air conditioning: Use air conditioning sparingly and only when necessary. Open windows and doors to ventilate your room when possible.
5. Avoiding Single-Use Plastics
Single-use plastics are a major source of pollution. Here's how you can reduce your plastic consumption:
Bring your own reusable water bottle: Refill your water bottle at water fountains or taps instead of buying bottled water.
Use reusable shopping bags: Bring your own reusable shopping bags when you go shopping. Avoid using plastic bags provided by stores.
Say no to plastic straws: Decline plastic straws at restaurants and bars. If you need a straw, consider using a reusable stainless steel or bamboo straw.
Bring your own reusable coffee cup: Many cafes offer discounts for customers who bring their own reusable coffee cups.
Avoid single-use plastic cutlery and containers: Pack your own reusable cutlery and containers for picnics and takeaways.
Choose products with minimal packaging: When shopping, choose products with minimal packaging or packaging that is recyclable or compostable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Accepting plastic bags even when you don't need them: Politely decline plastic bags and use your own reusable bags instead.
Forgetting your reusable items: Make sure to pack your reusable water bottle, shopping bags, and coffee cup before you leave home.
6. Choosing Sustainable Accommodation
Your choice of accommodation can have a significant impact on the environment. Look for accommodation providers that are committed to sustainability.
Look for eco-certifications: Choose accommodation providers that have eco-certifications, such as Ecotourism Australia certification. These certifications indicate that the provider has met certain environmental standards.
Ask about sustainability practices: Inquire about the accommodation provider's sustainability practices, such as water and energy conservation, waste reduction, and support for local communities. You can also check frequently asked questions to see if the accommodation has a sustainability policy.
Choose accommodation with sustainable features: Look for accommodation that has sustainable features, such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and composting toilets.
Support accommodation providers that give back to the community: Choose accommodation providers that support local communities through donations, volunteer programmes, or partnerships with local businesses.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Assuming that all eco-labelled accommodation is truly sustainable: Research the credibility of eco-labels and certifications before making a booking.
- Ignoring the environmental impact of your accommodation: Be mindful of your water and energy consumption while staying at your accommodation.
By following these tips, you can travel responsibly in Australia and help protect its natural beauty and cultural heritage for future generations. Enjoy your journey!