The Eco Certification programme in Australia has been developed to identify genuine eco tourism and nature tourism operators.

This certification gives travellers the assurance that they are having an ecologically sustainable quality experience.

We are very proud of the committed tourism and attraction operators in North Queensland who have taken up this challenge to become environmentally sustainable and socially and culturally responsible.

Eco Tourism Attractions in North Queensland are:

• Daintree Discovery Centre
• Hartley's Crocodile Adventures
• Mareeba Wetlands Reserve & Jabiru Safari Lodge
• Paronella Park
• Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Eco Tourism Tour operators in North Queensland are:

• Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises
• Calypso Reef Charters Pty Ltd
• Down Under Tours (Australia) Pty Ltd
• Eco Snorkelling
• Foaming Fury
• HABA Dive and Snorkel
• Mareeba Wetlands Reserve & Jabiru Safari Lodge
• RnR White Water Rafting
• Synergy Reef Sailing
• TAKA Dive Adventures
• Tropic Wings Coach Tours
• Tropical Horizons Tours
• Undersea Explorer
• Wilderness Challenge
• Wooroonooran Safaris

1994 Code of Practice for Ecotourism Operators - Australia

• Strengthen the conservation effort for, and enhance the natural integrity of the places visited.
• Respect the sensitivities of other cultures.
• Be efficient in the use of natural resources (water, energy).
• Ensure waste disposal has minimal environmental and aesthetic impact
• Develop a recycling program.
• Support principals (i.e. hotels, carriers etc.) who have a conservation ethic.
• Keep abreast of current political and environmental issues, particularly of the local area.
• Network with other stakeholders (particularly those in the local area) to keep each other informed of developments and encourage the use of this Code of Practice.
• Endeavour to use distribution networks (e.g. catalogues) and retail outlets to raise environmental awareness by distributing guidelines to consumers.
• Support ecotourism education/training for guides and managers.
• Employ tour guides well versed and respectful of local cultures and environments.
• Give clients appropriate verbal and written education (interpretation) and guidance with respect to the natural and cultural history of the areas visited.
• Use locally produced goods that benefit the local community, but do not buy goods made from threatened or endangered species.
• Never intentionally disturb or encourage the disturbance of wildlife or wildlife habitats.
• Keep vehicles to designated roads and tracks.
• Abide by the rules and regulations of natural areas.
• Commit to the principle of best practice.
• Comply with Australian Safety Standards.
• Ensure truth in advertising.
• Maximise the quality of experience for hosts and guests.