Tourism Council WA has today announced a new partnership with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) to deliver the highest level of environmental standards for select ecotourism operators.
Tourism Council WA has developed the new EcoStar Accreditation standard for tourism operations with DBCA leases, such as Karijini Eco Retreat, or E-class licenses in environmentally sensitive areas, such as whale shark dive operators
Tourism Council WA will be offering the new EcoStar Accreditation and onsite sustainability audit at no extra cost for tourism business members, saving operators time and money.
Tourism Council WA CEO Evan Hall said nature-based assets were some of Western Australia's most valuable, requiring the utmost protection and care.
"For more than 20 years, Tourism Council WA has delivered accreditation programs to ensure businesses deliver sustainable, high-quality tourism services," Mr Hall said.
"Through the EcoStar Accreditation, tourism operators can maintain best practice standards in national parks.
"As a not-for-profit association, Tourism Council WA is proud to provide this service free of charge to tourism business members. These small ecotourism businesses will save an average of $2,000 each," Mr Hall said.
