Business View Oceania - June 2024

organization has been instrumental in setting up international wildlife tourism guidelines and best practices. Recently, Green was invited to Japan to discuss sustainable wildlife tourism and help form a Japanese chapter of Wildlife Tourism Australia. The global expansion reflects the universal relevance of WTA’s mission and its success in promoting sustainable wildlife tourism practices. Green shares her excitement about the development, “Forming a Japanese chapter of WTA is an exciting step. It allows us to share our knowledge and experience on a global scale, promoting sustainable wildlife tourism practices beyond Australia.” ADDRESSING CONSERVATION THROUGH EDUCATION Education is a critical component of WTA’s strategy. The organization emphasizes the importance of high- quality interpretation in wildlife tourism, ensuring that tourists leave with a greater understanding and appreciation of the wildlife they encounter. This includes educating tourists about conservation issues and what they can do to help. Green explains, “We try to give a positive message about conservation. For example, reducing single- use plastics can help protect marine wildlife from ingesting plastic waste. It’s about making people aware of the impact they can have and encouraging them to take action.” PROMOTING RESEARCH AND ACADEMIC COLLABORATION WTA continues to foster strong ties with the academic community. The organization supports research on wildlife tourism and its impacts, providing valuable data that can inform conservation strategies and tourism practices. The research is made accessible to the public through WTA’s website, ensuring it benefits a broad audience. Green notes, “Our collaboration with universities and researchers is crucial. It allows us to stay at the forefront of wildlife tourism practices and ensure our guidelines are based on the latest scientific evidence.” A koala on the campus of G 63 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06 WI LDL I FE TOURISM AUSTRAL IA