How we’re supporting reforestation in Australia

Like many across the world, we’ve been deeply saddened by the bushfires that have broken out in Australia in recent months.  The story of Black Tomato began in Australia, where our three co-founders first met and dreamed up the idea of a new kind of experience-led travel company.  Ever since, we’ve loved showing our clients the beauty of this vast, entrancing land. Australia remains a wonderful and inspiring place to visit, and we’re proud to be supporting initiatives to help preserve this extraordinary ecosystem.

This season’s bushfires have damaged large swathes of rural Australia. Across millions of acres of land, the fires have destroyed homes and claimed the lives of dozens of people, as well as an estimated one billion animals. The intensity has been the worst recorded in history, with regions within New South Wales and Victoria the worst impacted.  Sites such as Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island – one of our favorite Antipodean hideaways – have experienced significant damage and will be out of action until repairs are complete.  Our thoughts go out to friends and partners overseas who have been affected by this tragic summer.

But there are reasons to be hopeful.

Black Tomato’s dedication to carbon offsetting

With inspiring reforestation projects across Australia tackling climate change, carbon pollution can be reduced and wildlife habitats can be restored. Black Tomato are proudly supporting these efforts.

As a part of our commitment to reduce our carbon footprint, we offset 110% of the emissions produced by our team’s flights and offer the opportunity for those traveling with us to do the same. By calculating these emissions, we then contribute the equivalent to projects that counteract the carbon produced. We carefully select projects that reflect our values and sustainability goals, and that have tangible benefits to communities in destinations dear to our hearts.  We are proud to be supporting reforestation efforts in Australia as part of our carbon offset initiative this year.

The Yarra Yarra Biodiversity Corridor in Southwest Australia is a project dedicated to removing over 1.897 million tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere. In a region where 90% of woodland had previously been cleared, indigenous trees and shrubs have been planted on degraded, agricultural land that no longer supports viable farming practices. Through the reforestation, native wildlife return to the landscape, providing viable habitats for threatened species and restoring biodiversity of this native land. 

How you can lend your support to reforestation in Australia

Over the years, we’ve sent countless travelers to Australia – a country of staggering and incomparable beauty. The fires have not altered this fact. This is why we encourage you to show your support for the Australian people by visiting and experiencing the beauty of the areas that have remained unaffected during this time: places such as the Whitsundays and Daintree Rainforest in Queensland, glamping in the wild Northern Territory or in the otherworldly landscape of the Red Center.