This New Initiative Makes Responsible Visits to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef More Accessible

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef Marine Park stretches as long as the entire U.S. west coast and represents 10 percent of the world’s coral reef ecosystems—comprising nearly 3,000 coral reefs, 300 coral cays, 600 continental islands, and 150 inshore mangrove islands. 

For years, the natural reef has faced extreme threats due to rising ocean temperatures, pollution, and changing climate patterns. The impacts are starkly illustrated by four significant coral bleaching events in just seven years, showcasing the destructive effects of climate change and human activities on this fragile yet vital ecosystem.

Last week, Tourism Tropical North Queensland introduced the Guardian of the Reef, a platform designed to educate travelers about this World Heritage Site and promote responsible travel practices.

Created in collaboration with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, the platform offers educational videos and quick facts on best practices, with users also receiving travel discounts through Expedia, a program partner. 

Besides discount offers, users can explore a virtual ocean floor on the platform, entering a raffle for a trip to the Great Barrier Reef and unlocking unique experiences, such as staying at Australia’s first underwater accommodation, Reefstay with Cruise Whitsundays, complete with a private guided snorkel safari. 

Ultimately, the most valuable reward is evolving into a more eco-conscious traveler. This program encourages visitors to support local sustainable businesses, respect the reef, understand current challenges, and recognize the cultural significance of the area. 

'Recognizing your impact on the Reef is the essential first step towards making a meaningful difference,' stated Mark Olsen, CEO of Tourism Tropical North Queensland, in a release shared with Dinogo.

The platform also showcases 142 eco-certified operators in the region, featuring activities like citizen science tours with Be a Marine Bio with Passions of Paradise, the zero carbon footprint pontoon experience at Lady Musgrave, and an electric bus tour to a rainforest by Tropic Wings. 

'This groundbreaking program extends the message of See it. Love it. Protect it. to a global audience,' said Eric Fisher, a marine biologist and master reef guide at GBR Biology and Reef Unlimited. 'Our Great Barrier Reef operators witness this firsthand as visitors leave with a newfound appreciation for the diversity and beauty of the world’s largest ecosystem, as well as a deeper understanding of the reef's current health.'

According to the Expedia Group's 2022 sustainability study, 90 percent of travelers prioritize sustainable options when they travel. The Guardian of the Reef seeks to channel this commitment into actionable practices for those visiting this site often regarded as one of the wonders of the natural world.