Outback Offsets is a pilot program established by Tourism NT, which aims for the operations of the participating Central Australian tour operators to be carbon neutral for the 2008-09 year.

Tourism NT developed this pilot program in response to growing consumer concern about the impact of climate change, particularly in our key international source markets.

In addition to reducing the carbon footprint of the touring sector, another objective of the pilot program is to test the importance of providing a carbon offset facility for travellers.

The pilot will run until the 30 June 2009 at which time Tourism NT will assess its success and the viability of establishing a carbon offset arrangement for the collective Northern Territory tourism industry.

World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Australia supports Tourism NT in the development of this pilot program:

"This collaboration between WWF, Government and the tourism industry shows how constructive partnerships can be forged to develop innovative and practical solutions to caring for our planet. It demonstrates to the touring public and to industry that we can continue to participate in and enjoy our wonderful natural environment if we simultaneously put in place programmes which help to protect that environment."

Greg Bourne, Chief Executive Officer, WWF Australia