Capital cracks down on carbon
12 Sep 2007
Carbon has been declared the enemy of the Wellington tourism industry as a growing number of operators join the battle towards a sustainable future.
Wellington City Council has proposed a vision for the city to become carbon neutral and the local tourism industry intends to lead by example.
"We're seeing increasing global awareness about sustainability issues," says Positively Wellington Tourism CEO Tim Cossar. "Tourism is one of the industries that is being asked to do some work, for obvious reasons."
"We've been talking to a variety of players in the Wellington tourism industry, and it's great to see sustainability is really on the radar."
Cossar says the response across the local industry has been varied but the underlying commitment towards environmentally friendly practices is universal.
"Some businesses have given this issue a lot of thought, and have made amazing changes to their operation. Others are very much at the beginning of that process, but are committed to making sustainability a key area of focus."
Karori Wildlife Sanctuary stands as the city's shining example of what a strong commitment to a sustainable vision can achieve. Eleven years ago it was a 250 hectare area of mixed vegetation, populated by introduced pests. Today, it is a world-first conservation reserve that protects native trees and animals, including the saddleback, hihi, little spotted kiwi and giant weta.
An increased environmental awareness among operators has already resulted in recognition and accolades for businesses who are proactively working in this 'green' space.
Earlier this year, the InterContinental Wellington achieved benchmark status with Green Globe. Green Globe is currently the only global benchmarking programme for travel and tourism.
Fellow accommodation provider, YHA Wellington City has also received acclaim for its commitment to environmental sustainability, taking out the prestigious Sustainable Business Network Trailblazer Award in 2006.
Not to be outdone, conservation initiatives are also well underway in the transport sector of the industry.
Seal Coast Safari will this year begin to plant two rata trees on an annual basis. Owner/operator John McKinney says each tree absorbs one tonne of carbon in its lifetime, which is more than the company emits in diesel consumption each year.
"We endeavour to be carbon neutral and have a very light environmental footprint," says John. Seal Coast Safari also makes a weekly financial contribution to a local native reforestation project.
Wellington also has a number of tour companies that utilise public transport and walking, such as Zest Food Tours, Wild About Wellington and Walk Wellington.
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