What is being done to conserve the Great Barrier Reef?

 Protecting the reef is a high priority to keep this incredible natural wonder alive for thousands of years.

There is no denying that climate change is the biggest threat to the Great Barrier Reef. To alleviate the impact it has on the reef and protect its diverse flora and fauna, industries have multiple plans in place. These include both land and water based management actions.

Who’s involved in protecting the reef?

Together, numerous groups and partnerships are working to help save the Great Barrier Reef. There are already plans in place with the help of traditional owners, the Australian Government, landholders, and local communities.

• Traditional owners

The reef is an important part of its traditional owners’ culture, so naturally, they are invested in keeping it protected. One of the most important plans is the 2050 Traditional Owner Implementation Plan. This aims to have the reef sustained as a living natural and cultural wonder of the world by 2050.

• Australian Government

The Australian Government is taking increased action on climate change to help protect and build resilience for the Great Barrier Reef. The Australian Government’s Long-Term Sustainability Plan takes action to restore and protect the reef. This involves improving water quality, reducing fishing related risks, and strengthening reef management.

Protecting the marine species

The Great Barrier Reef is home to thousands of different marine species. The plans in place are to help protect the reef, allowing it to continue to be a livable space for marine species.

An important marine species to protect are the green turtles. Raine Island is the world’s largest nesting popular for green turtles as well as an important seabird rookery. The island’s recovery project has different phases.

What about the tourism industry?

Tourism is already a well managed activity with most tours taking place in only seven per cent of the Great Barrier Reef. Even though the tourism industry is a low risk activity, tour operators continue to find ways to operate to a higher standard as part of their commitment to be sustainable.

If you want to take your own actions to help protect the reef, you can be sustainable when visiting, wear reef-safe sunscreen, and book an eco-certified tour. If you’re not visiting the reef you can still help by signing petitions, recycling properly, and continuing to educate yourself.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.