We are committed to operating responsibly and helping guests understand how climate change affects Springbrook National Park and Coombabah Lakelands. Our guides share clear, science based information about what climate change is, how it impacts our region, and how tourism contributes to global emissions. We also highlight the steps our business takes to reduce our footprint — from low waste operations and efficient vehicle use to supporting local suppliers and protecting sensitive environments.
Guests are encouraged to take simple climate positive actions while travelling, such as reducing single use plastics, choosing eco certified operators, and supporting local businesses.

Climate change refers to long term shifts in global temperatures and weather patterns. While natural variations occur, the rapid warming observed over the past century is primarily caused by human activities — especially the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and large scale land use changes. These activities increase greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, trapping heat and altering climate systems.

Springbrook National Park and the wider Gold Coast hinterland are sensitive ecosystems already experiencing the effects of a changing climate.

• Increased frequency of heatwaves and dry periods can stress native plants and wildlife.
• More intense rainfall events can lead to erosion, track damage, and changes to water flow in the Natural Bridge area.
• Shifts in seasonal patterns may affect glow worm behaviour, breeding cycles, and food availability.
• Warmer temperatures can influence the health of surrounding forests and the species that depend on them.

These changes highlight the importance of responsible tourism and conservation focused operations.

Tourism contributes to global emissions through transportation, energy use, and waste. However, responsible tourism — when managed carefully — can also support conservation, education, and community resilience.
Key contributors to tourism related emissions include:

• Vehicle and air travel
• Energy use in accommodation and transport
• Waste generation and resource consumption

By choosing eco certified operators and low impact experiences, travellers can help reduce these impacts.

We actively work to minimise our carbon footprint and operate in a way that protects the natural environment.
Our actions include:

• Efficient vehicle operations through regular maintenance and optimised scheduling to reduce fuel use.
• Low waste practices, including minimal printing, reusable equipment, and responsible waste disposal.
• Energy efficient equipment used across our operations.
• Water saving procedures in cleaning and daily operations.
• Supporting local suppliers, reducing transport emissions and strengthening the local economy.
• Environmental education delivered by our guides to help guests understand the importance of climate action.
• Donations to Greenfleet to offset our carbon emissions. We welcome donations to Greenfleet onboard our tour buses.

We continue to review our operations and adopt new practices that further reduce emissions and environmental impact.

Small choices made by travellers can significantly reduce emissions and protect natural areas.
Guests can:

• Bring a reusable water bottle and avoid single use plastics.
• Choose eco certified operators and low impact activities.
• Reduce energy use by switching off lights, air conditioning, and devices when not needed.
• Car share or use public transport where possible.
• Stay on designated paths to protect vegetation and reduce erosion.
• Support local businesses and producers to reduce supply chain emissions.

For guests wanting to deepen their understanding or take further climate action, the following resources offer reliable information and practical guidance:

• Australian Government – Climate Change Information
• Queensland Government – Climate Action and Adaptation Resources
• CSIRO – Climate Science and Research
• Local council sustainability programs and community conservation groups
• Non government organisations offering tools for reducing personal emissions and making sustainable lifestyle choices

These resources provide practical steps individuals can take at home and while travelling to contribute to climate resilience and environmental protection.