Eco Tourism and Initiatives
The Wildlife Habitat, Port Douglas is committed to environmental sustainability through the education of visitors to the Wet Tropics Region and the effective use of resources.

In 1998, the Wildlife Habitat received Advanced Eco-Tourism accreditation through the Eco-Tourism Association of Australia (EAA). This accreditation is used for products to highlight their commitment to providing a quality EcoTourism experience that has minimal impact on the natural environment.

In gaining Advanced Ecotourism Accreditation, the EAA requires the Wildlife Habitat to :
· Contribute to conservation of biodiversity
· Sustain the wellbeing of local people
· Include and interpretation and educational experience
· Involve responsible action on the part of tourists and the tourism industry

Did you know...
· The Wildlife Habitat, Port Douglas is also the Wet Tropics Information Centre.
· The Wildlife care centre cares for over 300 injured sick or orphaned animals each year.
· The land where the Park stands used to be a degraded cane farm.
· Was the first sanctuary to successfully breed in captivity the rare Black Necked Stork and Lumholtz Tree Kangaroo.

Environmental Commitments in place at the Wildlife Habitat:
· Responsible waste disposal: Waste oils are disposed in recycle bins, grease trap is regularly maintained. Only biodegradable products are released down drains and spillways. Where applicable, biodegradable products are purchased. Kitchen oil waste is contained, collected and recycled as an additive in biodiesel manufacture at Mossman Mill.
· Good water management: Water is recycled to irrigate maximum area in park, and hot water usage is minimised. Water system is backwashed regularly and timing of recycle pump is phased with aerator. No hoses or taps are left on unattended. Effluent and bore water is used for irrigation in non public areas and koala food plantation.
· Contribution to conservation: Birds have been used in research trials to gain information and help scientists develop different strategies to deal with the endangered Cassowary. Recent successful Lumholtz's Tree Kangaroo breeding program has promoted awareness of the plight of this endangered species.
· Energy conservation: Lighting is reduced where possible, timers are utilised, and use of air conditioning is kept to a minimum.
· Recycling systems for aluminium, glass, paper and cardboard. Recycled packaging is used throughout the park.
· Native animal products are NOT acceptable for sale or use.
· Local products/services are used wherever possible.
· Desert Cube waterless urinal product is used as a water saving measure and is clean, hygienic and includes microbes to breakdown odours.
· Scrap paper is recycled in animal enclosures and Wildlife care centre.
· Rats are bred onsite to feed carnivorous reptiles and birds.