MI Ride Discovery Tours –
Our Commitment to Sustainability
At MI Ride Discovery Tours, adventure and sustainability go hand in hand. We are committed to preserving the natural beauty, biodiversity, and cultural heritage of Magnetic Island while providing unforgettable, eco-conscious experiences.

Our Environmental Sustainability Policy and Environmental Management Plan are reviewed annually to ensure we continue to tread lightly, protect natural resources, and operate responsibly.

We are also proud to be working towards Ecotourism Certification with Ecotourism Australia. This certification recognises genuine, responsible tourism operators that
 prioritise sustainability, conservation, and immersive nature-based experiences.
With MI Ride, you’re not just exploring—you’re helping to preserve the wild beauty of Magnetic Island for future generations.
Sustainable Tourism & Ecotourism
What is Sustainable Tourism?
Sustainable tourism ensures that travel benefits both visitors and local communities while preserving natural and cultural assets. It enhances traveller experiences, fosters economic growth, and improves quality of life for residents.
What is Ecotourism?
“All ecotourism is sustainable tourism, but not all sustainable tourism is ecotourism.”
According to Ecotourism Australia, ecotourism is "ecologically sustainable tourism with a primary focus on experiencing natural areas that fosters environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation, and conservation." It prioritises conservation, cultural heritage, and responsible travel.
How to Travel Responsibly
-
Choose businesses committed to sustainability and conservation.
-
Respect local cultures, traditions, and environments.
-
Reduce waste by minimising plastic use and opting for reusable items.
-
Support local communities by buying locally made products and services.
-
Follow responsible wildlife and nature interaction guidelines.
Our commitment to sustainable tourism
At MI Ride Discovery Tours, we are dedicated to protecting Magnetic Island’s natural environment and supporting the local community. Our sustainability efforts focus on:
1. Environmental Stewardship
-
Eco-Friendly Transportation: Our 4WD buses use Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology with AdBlue, meeting Euro 6 emissions standards to reduce harmful gases.
-
Carbon Offsetting: We plant a tree for every tour and actively monitor and protect mangrove forests as a carbon sink.
-
Zero Waste Policy: We compost all kitchen waste, avoid single-use plastics, and provide reusable water bottles and mugs.
2. Cultural Respect & Community Engagement
-
Honouring Indigenous Heritage: We work with the Wulgurukabba people, supporting CANOE Projects Inc.and the Yunbenun Land and Sea Rangers.
-
Local Conservation Partnerships:
We donate proceeds from guest numbers to Magnetic Island Nature Care Association (MINCA).
3. Sustainable Practices
-
Renewable Energy: Our office, store, and kitchen operate using solar panels.
-
Efficient Resource Management: We integrate eco-driving principles and energy efficient operations.
4. Educating & Inspiring Guests
-
Guest Briefings: Every tour includes education on eco-friendly practices and conservation.
-
Citizen Science Participation: We support and transport researchers for fieldwork in hard-to-reach locations.
5. Certifications & Accreditations
-
EcoGuide Australia Certification (2024): Our guides are fully trained in sustainable tourism.
-
Applying for Ecotourism Australia Certification (2025).
Sustainability and conservation strategies
-
Offset our carbon footprint through reforestation and conservation initiatives.
-
Source local produce for all tours to reduce food miles.
-
Partner with climate-friendly businesses and suppliers.
-
Encourage other businesses to adopt sustainable practices.
-
Implement energy-efficient policies, including a large solar array.
-
Provide environmental and cultural education for staff.
-
Practice and promote eco-driving principles.
-
Maintain a strict 'No-Print' policy in the office.
-
Utilise a more efficient backup vehicle.
-
Follow a strict Zero Waste policy – all waste is composted, recycled, or repurposed.
-
Buy in bulk and use local suppliers whenever possible.
Our commitment to minimal impact travel
At MI Ride Discovery Tours, we encourage all guests to tread lightly. Our low-impact approach applies to driving, bushwalking, swimming, and wildlife interactions, ensuring we respect and protect nature.
Minimal Impact Strategies:
✅ Prevent pollution and reduce waste
✅ Stop the spread of invasive species
✅ Protect wildlife and vegetation
✅ Preserve biodiversity
On our tours, you’ll not only experience nature responsibly but also learn simple ways to continue protecting it long after your journey with us ends.
Magnetic Island: A Protected Natural Wonder
Magnetic Island, part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, is a haven for biodiversity, with 78% of its 5,184 hectares protected as national and conservation parks. The Wulgurukabba people, Traditional Custodians of Yunbenun, work alongside QPWS to manage and protect this ancestral land.
Surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, the island’s reefs, forests, and wildlife are safeguarded for future generations, ensuring a balance between conservation, community, and visitor enjoyment.
Keep Magnetic Island pest-free!
Our Great Barrier Reef World Heritage islands are some of the most pest-free in the world—let’s keep them that way!
Be Pest-Free Checklist:
✅ Clean your gear and footwear: Soil carries harmful bacteria, fungi and viruses.
✅ Check bags and pockets: Seeds and pests love to hide in stored items.
✅ Wrap and bin seeds or plant material: Keep our ecosystems pristine.
✅ Inspect before moving sites: Stop pests from spreading between locations.
Under Queensland’s General Biosecurity Obligation, we all play a role in protecting Magnetic Island's National Parks. Learn more about caring for our parks.
