Victoria Tourism Industry Council launches tourism emission reduction commitment

Victoria Tourism Industry Council launches tourism emission reduction commitment
Edited by Travel Weekly


The Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) has announced the launch of the Tourism Emission Reduction Commitment (TERC) program.

The TERC is a nationwide program developed by the Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC) in collaboration with ERC Protocol and is supported by the Australian Government through Austrade’s Quality Tourism Framework Grant Program. VTIC plays a key role in delivering this important program in Victoria as part of the Quality Tourism Sustainable Accreditation, reinforcing its dedication to helping the tourism industry reduce its carbon footprint and align with global sustainability.

It provides a clear pathway for tourism operators of all sizes to assess, monitor, and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Participating businesses will gain access to practical tools designed to help them implement effective emission reduction strategies.

TERC program key features:

  • User-friendly – It was designed to assist businesses at any stage of their carbon reduction journey, making it accessible to companies of all sizes.
  • Comprehensive support – Monthly online sessions and personalised one-on-one support will be available to equip tourism businesses with the knowledge and skills needed for their journey toward emissions reduction.
  • Cost savings – Reducing carbon emissions can lead to significant savings in energy and resource costs for tourism businesses.
  • Emissions benchmarking – Participants can benchmark their performance against industry standards, offering a clear view of their progress and identifying areas for improvement.
  • Recognition & Certification – Businesses that complete the program will receive a logo and QR code linked to their Climate Action Plan dashboard, allowing them to easily communicate their commitment to visitors.

Victoria Tourism Industry Council CEO, Felicia Mariani, said the program is hugely significant for tourism businesses who are looking to illustrate their commitment to actively reducing their carbon emissions.

“The Tourism Emission Reduction Commitment program is a critical step in ensuring the long-term sustainability of Victoria’s tourism industry. As visitors become increasingly conscious of their environmental impact, it is vital that our industry adapts to meet this growing expectation. This initiative not only benefits our environment, but also strengthens the reputation of Victorian tourism on the global stage,” she said.

ERC Protocol’s tourism sustainability manager, Daniela Ruiz Gomez, said: “We are thrilled to partner with VTIC on launching the Tourism Emissions Reduction Commitment Program, marking a significant stride towards sustainable practices within Victoria’s tourism industry.

“We are dedicated to supporting tourism businesses with our easy-to-follow program and comprehensive ongoing training. Our excitement only builds as we empower the tourism sector across Victoria to meet their sustainability goals and advance on their emissions reduction journey.”

Felicia Mariani concluded: “VTIC is thrilled to be able to invite all tourism businesses across Victoria to join the TERC program and become part of a movement that’s shaping a more sustainable future for our industry in Victoria.”

Latest News

  • Sustainability
  • Wholesalers

The Intrepid Foundation launches appeal to support Northern Vietnamese communities following Typhoon Yagi

Intrepid Travel has launched an emergency appeal through its not-for-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, to support impacted communities in Northern Vietnam following Typhoon Yagi, which made landfall on 7 September, 2024. All funds raised through the appeal will go directly to grassroots organisation Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation, to provide immediate relief to thousands without shelter, food […]

  • Aviation

Philippine Airlines and VietJet look to community connection near Western Sydney Airport

Both Philippine Airlines and VietJet will explore services from Western Sydney Airport with the airport’s proximity to the Filipino and Vietnamese diaspora in Sydney potentially beneficial to both carriers. Philippine Airlines VP revenue management and commercial planning Alex Featherstone, speaking at the CAPA Airline Leader Summit Australia Pacific, said the carrier would “explore” the potential […]

  • Tourism

Australian Cycle Tours adds new cycle trip to the Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail

Australian Cycle Tours has added a new, extended cycle trip that includes all sections of the popular Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail. The new trip commences in Beechworth with the first two days cycling with a transfer back to Beechworth, before continuing to Myrtleford and Bright, with a cycle on the newest sections of […]

  • Events
  • News

Anangu Communities Foundation raises $75,000 at its third annual Sydney fundraiser

Generous supporters gathered at the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour for the third annual Anangu Communities Foundation Sydney fundraiser to help raise $75,000. Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia administers the Foundation which so far has funded over $3 million in projects to support Anangu communities of Central Australia with a focus on building community capacity in healthcare, […]

  • News
  • Travel Agents

‘Virtuoso on Tour’ photos: Virtuoso showcases its best to agent base

Virtuoso hosted its second annual Virtuoso On Tour,  a destinations event at the ICC in Sydney showcasing tour operators, tourism boards and more to its agent family. The event is designed for travel agency members in Australia and New Zealand to network with Virtuoso partners across the globe. It housed six destination-themed pavilions (Australia & […]