“I see tourism here, today, between now and 2030, as a massive connector.”– Michelle Morss, General Manager, Strategy and Policy, Queenstown Lakes District Council

If Queenstown Lakes’ tourism industry decarbonizes by 2030, it will be the world’s first, setting a powerful example for other destinations to follow. This goal reflects a deep commitment to making rapid and meaningful changes in the travel industry, and demands immediate action and cooperation among politicians, tourism stakeholders, and the wider community.

But what is it about Queenstown Lakes that makes achieving this goal possible? To find out, we speak with two policy makers, Michelle Morss, General Manager of Strategy and Policy, and Mayor Glyn Lewers of the Queenstown Lakes District Council. We delve into the progressive plan of Queenstown Lakes’ tourism industry to decarbonize by 2030 and explore why this goal is so powerful.

In this episode of Travel Beyond, you’ll learn: 

• Why the “hyper-engaged” residents of Queenstown Lakes care so much about their community, tourism and its impact on the environment.
• How two policymakers are focusing that passion on the goal to reach carbon zero by 2030. 
• About the community’s participation in the planning process and the inherent tension between climate leadership and the scientific community.
• How travel can be a force for good in Queenstown Lakes and beyond.

Travel Beyond is a podcast that explores the world’s most inspiring stories of regeneration, connecting people with ideas and places that are using travel to make a positive impact on their communities and the environment.

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