Tourism Tropical North Queensland ceo Mark Olsen said sustainable travel is a priority with site launch

Tourism Tropical North Queensland is hoping to lead the world in sustainable travel as it launches an online hub and guide for visitors to the Far North.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland plans to lead the world in sustainable travel as it launched an online hub and guide for visitors to the Far North.

The sustainable travel hub is a platform accessible online which outlines ways travellers can minimise their footprint, find eco-certified experiences and accommodation, and engage in protecting the tropical Far North.

TTNQ chief executive Mark Olsen said they were “desperate to find more ways” to keep travel sustainable.

“The Tropical North Queensland Sustainable Travel Hub will help travellers to understand the value our region places,” he said.

“TTNQ are promising a world for the greater good.”

Tourism Tropical North Queensland has responded to the increasing number of travellers seeking environmentally friendly holidays by launching the online Sustainable Travel Hub through the TTNQ website. Skyrail ranger Katie Forbes, Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO Mark Olsen and GBR Biology master reef guide Eric Fisher explore the online hub, which allows tourists to explore the region in a more sustainable way. Picture: Brendan Radke

He said the push to sustainable travel had become more and more popular.

“There is also growing consumer interest for tourism to be more than sustainable – it should be restorative, reconciliatory and ultimately regenerative,” Mr Olsen said.

According to TTNQ data, 61 per cent of travellers are looking for sustainable travelling tips when they go on holidays.

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Great Barrier Reef Biology are in support of the online hub.

Skyrail Rainforest cableway ranger Katie Forbes said they were one of 10 businesses in the world that has an “earth check certification” — a public accreditation that demonstrates a business’s commitment to the environment

“The best part about our service is travellers don’t impact the environment. Customers can enjoy the rainforest without leaving a single footprint behind because of the boardwalks,” she said.

TTNQ's image of a diver checking the overall health of the reef. Photo: Supplied

“We have a group of dedicated professionals called ‘Skyrail sustainables’ that meet every month to brainstorm ways to better our end of the tourism market.”

GBR Biology manager and master reef guide Eric Fisher said sustainability was a driving passion for their team.

“We care most about delivering a memorable experience for our customers,” he said.

“We see people feel more connected and empowered by the future of the Great Barrier Reef and that in itself is a beautiful thing.”

Mr Fisher said the three companies coming together was the most important asset of sustainability because no matter what their competition might be throughout the tourism industry, when it comes to saving the rainforests and reefs only a “united force” can achieve this.

The online hub is available now and provides travel tips including where to go, what to do, and how to plan your trip all in a sustainable manner.

Mr Olsen said it was also an important tool for travel agents and tourism operators.

Tropical Tourism North Queensland aims to be the most memorable eco-tourism destination in the world.

Originally published as Tourism Tropical North Queensland ceo Mark Olsen said sustainable travel is a priority with site launch