“It is surely our responsibility to do everything within our power to create a planet that provides a home not just for us, but for all life on Earth.” — Sir David Attenborough
Why It Matters for Kangaroo Island and What We Can Do
Kangaroo Island is one of Australia’s most remarkable natural environments. It is a place of wild coastlines, ancient bushland, unique wildlife, and fragile ecosystems found nowhere else on Earth. However, like many remote natural areas, the Island is increasingly affected by climate change.
At Kangaroo Island Outdoor Action, we see these changes firsthand through our daily work in nature. Understanding climate change and its consequences helps us protect the landscapes and experiences that visitors come here to enjoy.
What Is Climate Change?
Climate change refers to long term shifts in temperature, weather patterns, and environmental conditions, largely driven by increased greenhouse gases in the atmosphere from human activities such as burning fossil fuels, land clearing, and industrial processes.
While Earth’s climate has always varied naturally, the current rate of change is unprecedented and is already affecting ecosystems worldwide.
How Climate Change Is Affecting Kangaroo Island
Increased fire risk
Longer, hotter summers and drier conditions increase the likelihood and severity of bushfires. Kangaroo Island experienced catastrophic fires in 2019 to 2020 that impacted wildlife, landscapes, and local communities. Recovery is ongoing, but changing climate conditions mean fire management will remain a critical issue.
Pressure on wildlife
Many species on Kangaroo Island exist nowhere else. Changing temperatures, altered rainfall patterns, and habitat loss place additional stress on animals already vulnerable to drought, fire, and human impacts.
Coastal erosion and sea level rise
Rising sea levels and stronger storms accelerate erosion of beaches, cliffs, and coastal ecosystems. This affects wildlife habitats as well as the scenic landscapes visitors come to experience.
Changes to vegetation and water availability
Shifts in rainfall patterns can affect native vegetation, soil stability, and freshwater availability. Drought conditions can reduce food sources for wildlife and increase vulnerability to invasive species.
Why Tourism Has a Role to Play
Tourism depends on healthy natural environments, but it can also contribute to climate impacts through transport emissions, resource use, and waste.
Many tourism activities worldwide accelerate global warming, making it important for businesses and travellers alike to minimise their environmental footprint.
Reduce your travel emissions
Responsible tourism can instead become part of the solution.
What We Are Doing at Kangaroo Island Outdoor Action
As an Advanced ECO Certified operator, we actively work to reduce our environmental impact while helping visitors connect with nature in a respectful and meaningful way.
Our approach includes
• Operating small group experiences to minimise disturbance
• Protecting native vegetation and wildlife habitats
• Educating guests about the Island’s ecology and conservation
• Maintaining strict safety and environmental procedures
• Supporting local conservation and community initiatives
• Encouraging low impact travel practices
We believe that experiencing nature firsthand builds understanding and that understanding leads to protection.
How Visitors Can Help. Responsible Travel Tips
Every traveller can make a difference. Simple choices before and during your trip can reduce your impact while enhancing your experience.
Before you travel
• Switch off non essential electronics at home before leaving
• Pack light because carrying less weight reduces transport emissions
• Choose eco certified accommodation and tour providers
While travelling
• Use public transport where possible or carpool with others
• Opt for smaller, fuel efficient vehicles if renting a car
• Offset your travel emissions where options are available
During your stay
• Turn off lights, air conditioners, and devices when leaving your room
• Save water by reusing towels and avoiding unnecessary washing
• Use reusable bottles, bags, and containers to reduce plastic waste
• Buy local products to support the regional economy and reduce transport impacts
Protecting nature
• Be mindful of your surroundings and minimise disturbance to wildlife
• Stay on designated tracks and respect sensitive habitats
• Avoid polluting oceans by applying reef safe or natural sunscreen well before swimming
• Leave natural areas as you found them
Lead by example
• Encourage others to travel responsibly
• Share knowledge about sustainable practices
• Support businesses that prioritise conservation
Being mindful of your surroundings and aiming to disrupt nature as little as possible is one of the most effective ways to travel responsibly.
Looking Forward
Climate change is one of the greatest environmental challenges of our time, but collective action by communities, businesses, governments, and travellers can make a real difference.
Kangaroo Island remains a place of extraordinary beauty and resilience. By working together to protect it, we can ensure future generations will continue to experience its wild landscapes, unique wildlife, and sense of adventure.
Experience Nature. Help Protect It
When you travel with Kangaroo Island Outdoor Action, you are supporting a small business committed to responsible tourism and environmental stewardship.
We invite you to explore the Island with us respectfully, thoughtfully, and sustainably.