If society is aiming to become more sustainable, then I would argue it is critical that we must better engage with the next generation, to grow our capacity for the future. To explain, much noise is made of the tentative steps towards a more sustainable future through mitigation by using technology. This ignores the footprint of creating those new technologies and it does not necessarily change consumer behaviour to be less wasteful. Therefore, we need to move to adaptation and jump over psychological hurdles to build social transitional capabilities.

This is an exciting time with the launch of Progress in Responsible Tourism a new journal with academic articles, practitioner’s reports and case studies in the field.

For economic and social sustainability reasons we need to rethink the way tourism is developed in Australia. The following summary points reflect my argument that we need to build truism from the bottom up, empower local communities to use tourism to conserve rural Australia’s culture (full paper attached below). Tourism practitioners now have the opportunity of contributing to the Tourism Expenditure Taskforce.

Responsible Tourism paper at the Global Eco Conference 9th november 2011

Christopher is delivering this paper following six months of research examining Australian consumer's propencity to select Responsible Accommodation. The paper is being presented on World Responsible Tourism Day at the Global Eco Conference in Sydney, NSW. He seeks to stimulate further debate and action to encourge a more sustainable Australian tourism sector through deeper enagement with consumers.

Who would benefit from hearing this paper?

It is interesting to note that a mainstream media channel in Australia reported a greener destination experience this weekend. Written not as a quirky option for a few 'Greenies' but as alternative that might appeal to anyone. Sydney Morning Herald - How Green Is My Valley.

Turning your responsible actions into a tourism experience

The following example demonstrates how an operator's property and sustainability message can be used to support a community event and add value to the visitor experience.

Introducing a garden walk with a difference.

Kangaroo Valley & South Coast Discovery Tours Australia is a new travel service which conveys its responsible marketing message using philosophical tone.The inspiration came from Aristotle's Good Action and Phronesis - practical wisdom. As travel is essentially a hedonistic experience for many, using the insights from an ancient Greek philosopher seemed a reasonable place to start. Encouraging responsible action is thus inter linked with enjoying a Good experience while letting other flourish.

Aviation is responsible for significant GHG emissions yet is also a vital artery to feed regional tourism in Australia and deliver international visitors. We need the planes to bring tourists but we also must cut emissions. So how can you do it better?

Fair Trade Australia and New Zealand sales grew 200% in 2010 over the previous year to $150 million. The majority of growth came from the launch of Cadbury’s and Whittakers chocolate. It is surely a very clear indication that Australian and New Zealand shopper are prepared to select brands on their ethical values, not simply on price and purchase habit.