Project Description
The QRTN Climate Action Project, lead by EarthCheck with support from the team at the Griffith Institute for Tourism, aims to support accelerating climate action in tourism by using a data-driven approach to identify the most effective path to net zero. The project supports the Queensland tourism industry in leading the way towards carbon neutrality by 2050, aligning the industry with the emissions reduction targets established by the Queensland Government.
Project Personnel and Beneficiaries
This project supports all 13 Queensland Regional Tourism Organisations in addressing climate change risk. It thus benefits each of the destinations, including their tourism businesses and communities, as well as other destination stakeholders. Partnerships are critical in climate actions and some Tourism Organisations are working closely with their local Council to develop and implement action plans.
Outcomes to Date
Phase 1 of the project focused on establishing a baseline carbon footprint methodology, understanding Queensland tourism’s carbon footprint now and develop emission scenarios to 2030 and 2050, and identifying potential Scope 1 and 2 emissions reduction pathways.
Phase 2 of the project focused on working with two destinations to develop climate action plans. This process involved several net zero destination workshops and interviews to increase awareness on the science behind net zero, develop a framework and actions on priority areas. As a result, a guidance tool for destinations towards net zero was developed.
Project Significance
Queensland’s tourism industry is recognised as being one of the sectors most at risk from climate change. Yet, it is an industry that relies on attractive natural landscapes and thriving communities for its success. Protecting the environment and the society on which it relies is essential to the future of the industry. As decarbonisation requirements increase, the industry is eager to develop pathways to contribute to the Queensland Government’s 2030 and 2050 emission reduction targets, as well as building resilience to growing climate change risks.