Sunshine Coast Tourism (SCT) recently kicked off a new initiative: Sustainable Sunshine Coast.
“The aim is to assist business, visitors and residents to take simple actions that reduce our ecological footprint and raise awareness by profiling tourism operation leaders,” stated SCT executive director Paul Kamon, in a media release.
Sunshine Coast Tourism Growth Management Committee, which is working on key issues identified in the 10-Year Sunshine Coast Destination Development Plan, chose two focus areas this summer.
According to the release, conserving water is one area, because it’s in increasingly short supply and a critical resource for everyone.
“Our water conservation pledge is available at tourism visitor centres all over the coast from Lund to Langdale, or from sunshinecoastcanada.com/sustainable,” the release stated. “In three simple steps: Look at past water use, choose your goals, and take action.”
Making greener transportation choices was the second area chosen.
“Walk, bike or bus; we challenge everyone to select a greener choice for just one weekly trip you take,” stated Kamon. “It’s a great way to help us rethink our transportation modes.
“Transportation is a challenge on the coast. But more visitors are arriving by bike and locals are choosing it, too. With transportation alternative choices, the project provides tips and resources.
According to the release, current market research shows a strong rise in visitor interest for sustainable destinations, with visitors choosing destinations that embrace low environmental footprint operations.
“It saves business costs long-term, reduces waste and gives restaurants, accommodations and other operators the opportunity to demonstrate early adoption to attract a quickly growing market for more sustainable services and products,” stated Kamon. “Pickup free print material at local visitor centres while they last.”
Sunshine Coast Tourism offers communication via unified messaging for participating businesses to adopt, including free stickers for accommodations, restaurants and cafés; a web page with information and links to local services; tips and support for business operations, visitors and locals; an online pledge and a short survey to gather feedback; and business support to tackle water conservation and greener transportation via [email protected].
“As we turn the corner on this pandemic, climate change remains a paramount concern,” stated Kamon. “We invite everyone to help protect the natural and cultural resources on the coast by doing their part.
“We want a mindful and celebratory approach – after all, we live in one of the most beautiful places in the entire world. Let’s enjoy and take good care of it.”
Follow social media posts on #sustainablesunshinecoast.
