Longitude 131 is a tribute and an extension of the Anangu people and their history.
The establishment of the camp was approved under the Commonwealth Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act and involved extensive consultations with the Central Land Council and Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority, including studies of cultural maps to confirm that there were no sacred sites in the immediate vicinity of the property. Longitude 131 is located on an area of 23,800 square meters of privately owned land, surrounded by Katiti Aboriginal Land and the World Heritage-listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. A range of measures have been taken to protect the area’s unique environmental and cultural heritage.
Environment: The construction of Longitude 131 was carried out with a focus on energy-efficient design. The tents are designed to improve thermal and acoustic insulation, and the floors are insulated and covered with natural stone to enhance cooling in the summer and insulation in the winter. They are also designed to have minimal environmental impact on the delicate nature and can easily be dismantled without leaving a footprint.
Environmental Management: A comprehensive plan is in place governing all strategies related to the conservation of the desert ecosystem. Particular attention is paid to the conservation of small native animals in the area, including the local population of the mulgara, a carnivorous marsupial endemic to central Australia.
Energy-Saving Measures: Longitude 131 is equipped with solar panels to provide hot water to the guest tents. The pool is heated using energy-efficient heat pump technology. It also utilizes the Yulara Solar Project, commissioned by Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia in 2016. The system integrates 1.8 MW of solar photovoltaic (PV) power into the existing power grid at Yulara Resort and neighboring businesses. This system is an example of sustainable ecotourism and sets a benchmark for other remote tourism operations. With the desert sun serving as an abundant solar resource, integrating solar cells into the power system was identified as the best way to manage energy costs while reducing carbon emissions.
Waste Management: Extensive recycling takes place at Longitude 131, where compostable materials, cardboard
and paper, glass, plastic, aluminum, and waste are separated. Biodegradable chemicals are used for cleaning.
Water-Saving Measures: Longitude 131 has installed energy-efficient bathroom and shower fixtures to ensure guests minimize their water usage. Guests are encouraged to opt for towel and linen changes every three days during their stay, potentially saving 250,000 liters annually and minimizing detergent use.
