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CODE OF PRACTICE FOR ECOTOURISM OPERATORS
ECOTOURISM ASSOCIATION OF 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 eg. water, energy
- Ensure waste disposal has minimal environmental and aesthetic impacts and 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 to encourage the use of this Code of Practice.
- Endeavour to use distribution networks (eg. catalogues) and retail outlets to raise environmental awareness by distributing guidelines to consumers.
- Employ tour guides well versed and respectful of local cultures and environments
- Support ecotourism education/training for guides and managers.
- Give clients appropriate verbal and written educational material (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 trails
- Abide by the rules and regulations applying in natural areas
- Commit to the principle of best practice
- Comply with Australian safety standards
- Ensure truth in advertising, and Maximize the quality of experience for hosts and guests