Coffs Coast Celebrates One Year of Being an ECO Destination
Published on 25 November 2022
It’s been 12 months since the Coffs Coast was declared NSW’s first ever ECO Destination – and we’re celebrating!
“Nationally and internationally, travellers want to support more sustainable outcomes for the planet. The Coffs Coast presents locals and visitors with uniquely curated, environmentally-conscious tourism offerings in a stunning region that has a wealth of travel experiences,” said Natalia Cowley, City of Coffs Harbour’s General Manager.
“Having this global green tick of approval truly puts the Coffs Coast on the world map.”
Awarded by Ecotourism Australia, this program is recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council through Green Destinations. It helps consumers make conscious choices, avoid fake greenwashing and gives them confidence to spend their tourism dollars supporting sustainability, community, and Indigenous culture.
The ECO Destination Certification means the 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.
Sharing Gumbaynggirr culture and knowledge of Country across the Coffs Coast also secured the region a place on the prestigious Global Green Destinations Top 100 List for 2022.
The region’s selected story entry, Two Path Strong, celebrates Aboriginal tourism on the Coffs Coast and the rich culture that has supported the establishment of the first bilingual Indigenous language school in New South Wales, Australia.
There are now 8 fully-accredited Eco Tourism – Certified Champions on the Coffs Coast, with 2 more operators currently going through the process.
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 themes including:
- destination management
- nature and scenery
- environment and climate
- culture and tradition
- social wellbeing
- business and hospitality
- ecotourism focused elements
The Coffs Coast is geographically unique as it is the only place in NSW where the Great Dividing Range meets the Pacific Ocean. The region has 13 national parks and many more state forests and reserves that extend from mountainous hinterland through to unspoiled coastline bordering the Solitary Islands Marine Park, the oldest marine park in NSW.
City of Coffs Harbour was supported in gaining certification for the destination by Ecotourism Australia and WWF-Australia (World Wildlife Fund for Nature).
Search giant Google also supports ECO Certification, showcasing the badge on its accommodation listings to help support first-class, nature-based tourism.
To join in the celebration and to find out how you can share the good news, head over to coffscoast.com.au/ECOtoolkit.