Congratulations and welcome to Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden for achieving Ecotourism Certification!
What may seemingly be barren and lifeless land, Australia’s arid lands are quite the opposite! These lands are home to thousands of highly evolved plant communities that are specially adapted to thrive in an environment where temperatures are extreme and drought can last for decades. Australia’s arid ecosystems are fragile and complex, and found nowhere else on earth.
The Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden (AALBG) in Port Augusta, South Australia, was established in 1993, with the garden officially opening in 1996 to research, conserve and promote the wider appreciation of Australia’s arid zone flora. Located on the shores of Upper Spencer Gulf with spectacular views to the ancient Flinders ranges, the garden showcases a diverse collection of arid zone habitats in a picturesque setting of more than 250 hectares.
AALBG is committed to practising and promoting environmental sustainability and have taken various measures to monitor and reduce their impact on the environment and their carbon footprint. Some of these include a commitment to recycle, the installation of solar powered lighting in the garden, treating waste water at a water treatment plant and using chemical free cleaning products.
AALBG communicate and consult with the local Barngarla and Nukunu communities regarding traditional uses and name of native plants. There is also consultation when any major changes that are planned for the garden. Cultural sensitive areas within the gardens are considered with accessed restricted to some areas.
We are very pleased to have AALBG on board as an Ecotourism certified attraction! More information about AALBG can be found on their website or Facebook page.