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Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Queensland, Australia

Protected Areas

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park strictly guides protection of the reef's fragile ecosystems. The Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Area protects the Daintree Rainforest. Many national parks surround Cairns.

Waste & Water Use

Recycling bins are available in public areas and most accommodations. Reduce single-use plastics by carrying a reusable water bottle. Considerate water use is always encouraged.

Eco-Conscious Choices

Many airlines have Carbon offset programs. Look for eco-certified accommodation and tour operators like Ecobnb.

Environmental Care

Sustainable practices contribute to preserving Cairns' natural wonders.

Reef & Rainforest Regulations

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park guides protection of fragile ecosystems. The Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Area protects the Daintree Rainforest.

Visitor Conduct

  • Visitors should follow rules, like not touching coral.
  • Avoid littering.
  • Confirm proper waste disposal on boats.
  • In national parks, use Leave No Trace methods.

Eco-Conscious Shopping

Choose products with a lower environmental footprint.

Sustainable Gear & Products

  • Consider sustainable outdoor gear from retailers like Patagonia.
  • Look into reusable products from companies like Package Free Shop.
  • These choices support a reduction in waste.
  • Support brands committed to ethical production.

Responsible Waste Disposal

Waste management and recycling practices are in place.

Minimize Your Footprint

  • Recycling bins exist for plastic, glass, paper, and cans.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle.
  • Bring a reusable shopping bag.
  • Considerate water use is encouraged, even with high rainfall.

Carbon & Conservation

Support projects that reduce environmental impact.

Sustainable Contributions

  • Many airlines have carbon offset programs when you book flights.
  • This lets you contribute to projects that lessen greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Some tour operators contribute to conservation work.
  • Seek businesses with eco-certifications for sustainable operations.

Ethical Tourism

Ethical Tour Operators

Support operators committed to ethical practices, like G Adventures.

Explore G Adventures

Conservation Initiatives

Contribute to conservation through organizations like The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood).

Visit The Rainforest Site

Collective Impact

Your choices as a traveler contribute to a positive impact on the environment and local communities.

Cultural Sensitivity

Support for cultural preservation efforts is important.

Respectful Interactions

These initiatives work to preserve and share cultural heritage.

Engaging with Locals

  • Listen to their stories and perspectives.
  • These share invaluable views into the land's history and meaning.
  • Be polite, friendly, and respectful of local customs.
  • Ask for permission when photographing people, especially close-ups.

Cultural Sites

Be mindful of privacy in residential areas.

Visit Guidelines

  • Cairns does not have many formal religious sites for general tourism.
  • If you visit any place of worship, dress modestly.
  • Behave respectfully in such locations.
  • Do not touch or remove artifacts from culturally sensitive areas.

Economic Impact

Your choices as a traveler contribute to a positive economic impact on the local community.

Local Spending

Dine at local restaurants and cafes rather than large international chains. Shop at local markets, like Rusty's Market.

Supporting Local Business

Book tours through local operators or the Cairns Visitor Information Centre; they often promote local businesses.

Ethical Purchases

Look for "made in Australia" labels for souvenirs to support the regional economy.

Avoid Harmful Practices

Avoid tours or activities that carry unethical interactions with wildlife, like animal performances or unnatural wild animal feeding. These pose risks to animal welfare and natural behaviors. Do not get involved in activities that exploit local people or natural resources.

Economic Contributions

Your choices as a traveler contribute directly to the local economy.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

Seek businesses that practice fair trade and ethical sourcing.

Supporting Local Makers

  • Look for "made in Australia" labels on souvenirs.
  • This supports the regional economy directly.
  • Shop at local markets for fresh produce and crafts.
  • Your purchases contribute to local livelihoods.

Choosing Local Services

Direct your spending to local establishments.

Local Business Promotion

  • Dine at local restaurants and cafes.
  • Book tours through local operators.
  • The Cairns Visitor Information Centre often promotes local businesses.
  • This circulation of funds supports the community directly.

Responsible Wildlife Tourism

Ensure your animal encounters are ethical and sustainable.

Animal Welfare

  • Avoid tours or activities with unethical wildlife interactions.
  • This includes animal performances or unnatural feeding of wild animals.
  • Such practices pose risks to animal welfare and natural behaviors.
  • Seek out reputable eco-tourism operators.

Avoiding Exploitation

Conscious decisions benefit the destination and its people.

Ethical Travel Conduct

  • Do not get involved in activities that exploit local people.
  • Avoid activities that exploit natural resources.
  • Support businesses that uphold fair labor practices.
  • Seek experiences that bring mutual respect.

Local Economic Contribution

Your financial decisions bolster the local community.

Market Visits

Visit Rusty's Market for fresh produce and local crafts. This supports local farmers and artisans.

Local Tours

Book tours directly through local operators or the visitor center. This keeps funds within the region.

Food & Beverage

Choose locally-owned restaurants and cafes. Your dining choices contribute to local jobs and businesses.

Ethical Considerations

Prioritize animal welfare and local community well-being in all travel decisions. Confirm your activities align with these principles.

Mindful Travel

Traveling with consciousness and respect contributes positively to the destination and its inhabitants.