It is certainly fitting that this conference is being held in South Australia, which became the first jurisdiction in Australia - and only third in the world - to introduce climate change legislation.

South Australia is also the national leader in the development and use of renewable energy sources, with 20 per cent of its energy needs to come from renewable sources by 2010.

Indeed, with eight per cent of Australia’s population, we have 53 per cent of the nation’s installed wind power capacity, around 40 per cent of the grid-connected solar power and more than 80 per cent of the geothermal development.

While climate change poses immense challenges for our planet, it also provides us with great opportunities.

Adapting behaviour to minimise our environmental impact, and increasing consumer awareness in order to minimise that effect represents the way of the future for the tourism industry.

It will be able to benefit by further developing “green packages” aimed at reducing holidaymakers’ carbon footprint.

As you will hopefully experience, South Australia boasts some natural gems such as Kangaroo Island and our globally-renowned wine growing regions.

And while they are showcase destinations in their own right, their value could be even further enhanced as drawcards for eco-tourists.

The tourism industry has a great opportunity to tackle greenhouse emissions and climate change in a way that not only helps the environment, but boosts business as well.

I wish you all the best for the Inaugural 2008 National Conference on Green Travel, Climate Change and Ecotourism.

I also extend a warm welcome to all interstate and overseas delegates, and hope that you enjoy the best that South Australia has to offer during your stay.

Mike Rann
Premier of South Australia
Minister for Sustainability and Climate Change
August 2008