Ecotourism is described by the International Ecotourism Society as:

"Ecologically sustainable tourism with a primary focus on experiencing natural areas that fosters environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation"

Red Mill House is committed to responsible and sustainable travel, and to using resources wisely, contributing to the conservation of the environment and helping local communities.

To help achieve these aims Red Mill House has met the following criteria:

Business Management and Operational Planning: Red Mill House meets all legal compliances, has a sound Business and Marketing Plan, documented Operational Management and Business Systems, Customer Service standards, and Risk Management procedures in place.

Business Ethics: Red Mill House has proved that it follows ethical business practices such as accepting a commitment to ecological sustainability, natural area management and the provision of quality ecological experiences.

Responsible Marketing: Red Mill House's marketing provides accurate and responsible information about the environments visited. The two websites www.redmillhouse.com.au and www.daintreebirdwatching.com.au have extensive information of the Daintree flora and fauna, with a focus on birds and is an accurate depiction of what guests may expect.

Customer Satisfaction: The experience at Red Mill House meets or exceeds the realistic expectations of guests, and feedback is sought and acted upon. Feedback on travel forums such as Trip Advisor is extensive.

Natural Area Focus: Red Mill House focuses on guests directly and personally experiencing the natural environment. Guests are given local Daintree bird species lists and detailed information on location for best birdwatching. Guide books, binoculars and telescopes are available for guests use. Local tourism products such as interpretive centres, self-guided and guides rainforest walks, and river cruises are discussed with guests. A comprehensive brief on the Daintree National Park and World Heritage area is given to all guests.

Environmental Management: Working with guests and suppliers to minimise the use of energy, fuel and water and to improve recycling practices, Red Mill House has set a target of an annual reduction in greenhouse emissions of 10%. Interpretation and Education: Red Mill House offers expert information on the wildlife of the Daintree and maintains a weekly bird list for the area, plus a bulletin board for unusual sightings. Naturalist guiding is also available.

Contribution to Conservation: By an ongoing contribution of $2 every day to the Rainforest Rescue to Protect Rainforests Forever Program, Red Mill House has helped the organisation to purchase and protect property in the Daintree.

Working with Local Communities: Red Mill House has a strong relationship with Daintree State School - taking the children for interpretative walks, donating nature books to the library, assisting with fund-raising and assisting with waste reduction. Local produce is used whenever possible and a 'buy locally' policy exists. Red Mill House encourages guests to support local businesses, and cards and books by local authors and artists are for sale.