Surf Coast's green credentials earn global tick

Surf Coast’s green credentials earn global tick

Surf Coast Eco Destination Certification

(From left) Surf Coast Shire mayor Libby Stapleton, chief executive Robyn Seymour, Barwon Water head of sustainability and health country Nicole Sexton, Parks Victoria west coast district manager Dale Antonysen and Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority chair Libby Mears. Photo: Supplied.

THE Surf Coast has earned global recognition for its approach to sustainable tourism, becoming one of a select group of destinations to achieve Eco Destination certification.

Announced by Ecotourism Australia this week, the certification recognises the Surf Coast Shire’s adherence to international best practice in environmental management and responsible tourism.

The shire is just the second destination in Victoria to receive the accreditation, following East Gippsland in 2023, and the 15th destination nationally.

“This certification recognises the dedication of the Surf Coast Shire team, businesses and residents in making the Surf Coast a model for responsible tourism in Australia,” Ecotourism Australia chief executive Elissa Keenan said.

“With exceptional nature-based experiences offered by eco-certified operators such as Torquay Surf Academy, Southern Exposure Eco Adventure Sports and Go Ride A Wave, and sustainable accommodation offerings from Desa Retreats, RACV Torquay Resort, Great Ocean Road Resort and Mantra Lorne, visitors can explore the Surf Coast knowing they are supporting a region that values its environment as much as its vibrant lifestyle.”

The accreditation process assesses destinations against more than 90 criteria across areas including environmental management, climate action, cultural heritage and social wellbeing.

On the ground, that includes monitoring visitor impacts, protecting sensitive ecosystems through licensing and guidelines, investing in water conservation and low-impact transport, and supporting cultural experiences that benefit local communities.

About 2.6 million people visit the Surf Coast each year.

Surf Coast Shire mayor Libby Stapleton said the certification strengthened the region’s status as a place where visitors can soak up nature-focused experiences.

“One of our priorities is to foster slow and regenerative tourism that is respectful of the local environment, values local communities and maximises local yield and revenue. This certification will help us to achieve that,” Cr Stapleton said.

“We also want tourism to deliver consistent economic and social benefits year-round. What better way to help achieve this than to welcome visitors who love the outdoors and care about the environment.”