Margaret River is WA’s First Certified Eco Destination

The globally recognised Ecotourism Australia certification process is rigorous and recognises the efforts of the entire community, local government and tourism industry towards all aspects of local sustainability.

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River prides itself on environmental awareness and action. In 2019 the Shire of Augusta Margaret River partnered with community members to deliver a Climate Action Summit at the head of the Margaret River Surf Pro, and following this declared a climate emergency, with a target of net zero emissions by 2030 endorsed in the recent Climate Action Plan.

It’s no secret that our ECO Destination is one of the most pristine and biodiverse environments in the world, we all benefit from the majesty of this place, travellers and locals alike. With this, comes a responsibility to preserve and protect it so that it can be enjoyed for generations to come. This isn’t just a tick in a box, it’s a way of life, an ongoing journey and one we want you to experience when you are here.

Connect deeply, walk softly and experience our generous nature.

Incorporating conscious, sustainable habits into our everyday lives is more important than ever and this doesn’t have to stop when you are on holiday. Eco Certification makes it easy for travellers to find high-quality nature-based experiences run by genuine tourism operators who are truly committed to sustainable practices, making your holiday even more rewarding.

Congratulations to Blackwood River Houseboats, Fair Harvest Permaculture, Tanah Marah, Jester’s Flat Horse Riding and Margaret River Discovery Company, whose hard work has seen them attain Ecotourism Certification right as the region as a whole announces its Destination Certification.

These operators join those with existing ECO Certification, including Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, Eagles Heritage, Jewel, Lake and Mammoth Cave; Cape to Cape Explorer Tours; Margaret River Retreat; Margaret River Surf School; Surf N Dirt Adventure Tours; Right Foot Forward WA and Southern Fire Wellness.

Outside the towns of Margaret River and Augusta, if you are travelling in Dunsborough and Busselton you can find the following Eco Accredited experiences; Yelverton Brook, Forest Rise Eco Retreat, South West Eco Discoveries, Busselton Jetty, RAC Busselton Holiday Park, Siesta Holiday Park, Forest Adventures South West, and Ngilgi Cave.

Additionally the following operators are all Eco Accredited and their experiences span across the entire region; Walk Into Luxury, Naturaliste Charters, Whale Watch WA, and Untamed Escapes.

Alongside this, there are countless local businesses whose inherent values mean that they manage their business in a way that quietly gives back to our community – be that on an environmental, social or cultural level.