Sustainability Hub
Welcome to sustainability in The Whitsundays, where we are committed to protecting this pristine region for future generations.
Sustainability in The Whitsundays
The Whitsundays has implemented sustainability initiatives to protect its surroundings, including the first solar-powered resort on the Great Barrier Reef, a certified Clean Marina, and electric vehicle charging stations. The region is committed to building strong partnerships to ensure the reef’s future. Visitors are encouraged to become ambassadors of the reef by making changes in their lives that lead to better outcomes for this natural wonder.
The region’s pristine waters, rich marine biodiversity, and stunning landscapes are not only a travel destination but also a shared responsibility.
The Great Barrier Reef Foundation's Reef Islands Initiative
The Great Barrier Reef Foundation’s Reef Islands Initiative is establishing a network of climate change refuges by protecting critical island habitats.
The Whitsundays were mapped in 2020 for coral and seagrass restoration. The Reef community, including tourism operators, Traditional Owners, and Reef managers, is working on priority projects.
The Great Barrier Reef Foundation's Reef Islands Initiative
The Great Barrier Reef Foundation’s Reef Islands Initiative is establishing a network of climate change refuges by protecting critical island habitats.
The Whitsundays were mapped in 2020 for coral and seagrass restoration. The Reef community, including tourism operators, Traditional Owners, and Reef managers, is working on priority projects.
Collaborative Conservation Efforts
The Whitsundays thrives on partnerships between local communities, businesses, and environmental groups. Initiatives such as beach clean-ups, coral restoration, and sustainable waste management practices rely on the combined efforts of all stakeholders to maintain the region’s beauty and health.
Ocean Rafting, Red Cat Adventures, Daydream Island, Ngaro Traditional Owners, Australian Institute of Marine Science, Southern Cross University, and Reef Catchments.
Coral Gardening Project
The Federal and State Government Tourism Recovery Fund started a Coral Gardening project in The Whitsundays Marine Park in December 2018. Managed by Reef Ecologic, coral nursery frames were installed, and corals propagated at Blue Pearl Bay and Manta Ray Bay. Initially, 425 coral fragments from four genera and over ten species were planted. Since then, activities have continued successfully, with over 2,000 corals planted and an 80% survival rate. Research shows the 188 out-planted corals are thriving, with a 92% survival rate in Manta Ray Bay two months after out-planting.
Coral Gardening Project
The Federal and State Government Tourism Recovery Fund started a Coral Gardening project in The Whitsundays Marine Park in December 2018. Managed by Reef Ecologic, coral nursery frames were installed, and corals propagated at Blue Pearl Bay and Manta Ray Bay. Initially, 425 coral fragments from four genera and over ten species were planted. Since then, activities have continued successfully, with over 2,000 corals planted and an 80% survival rate. Research shows the 188 out-planted corals are thriving, with a 92% survival rate in Manta Ray Bay two months after out-planting.
Water Quality Data Loggers
Through a recent grant, two Water Quality Data Loggers will be installed in The Whitsundays. Crews from the marine tourism industry will maintain the equipment. The data collected from these water quality loggers will be an invaluable aid in guiding management activities on the fringing coral reef systems. Click here for more information.
Water Quality Data Loggers
Through a recent grant, two Water Quality Data Loggers will be installed in The Whitsundays. Crews from the marine tourism industry will maintain the equipment. The data collected from these water quality loggers will be an invaluable aid in guiding management activities on the fringing coral reef systems. Click here for more information.
Master Reef Guides
The Whitsundays is proud to have a number of Master Reef Guides in the region as part of the Master Reef Guide Program, which aims to bring a deeper understanding of reef management and protection.
Local guides have been trained to serve as advocates and storytellers, providing the public with better information and education about the Great Barrier Reef. Additionally, many tour operators participate in the “Eye on the Reef” program by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA). This program is designed to monitor and assess the reef’s health, marine animals, and incidents. As a result, anyone who visits the reef can contribute to its long-term protection by collecting valuable information.
Master Reef Guides
The Whitsundays is proud to have a number of Master Reef Guides in the region as part of the Master Reef Guide Program, which aims to bring a deeper understanding of reef management and protection.
Local guides have been trained to serve as advocates and storytellers, providing the public with better information and education about the Great Barrier Reef. Additionally, many tour operators participate in the “Eye on the Reef” program by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA). This program is designed to monitor and assess the reef’s health, marine animals, and incidents. As a result, anyone who visits the reef can contribute to its long-term protection by collecting valuable information.
Eco Barge Clean Seas
Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. has removed 254,234 kg of marine debris from Whitsunday waters since 2009. The organisation engages the community to protect the marine life and aquatic environment. They also reduce debris through the Clean Streets and Creeks Program and care for sick and injured marine turtles.
The Whitsunday region supports the Last Straw campaign by using paper straws. For more information, visit their website.
Eco Barge Clean Seas
Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. has removed 254,234 kg of marine debris from Whitsunday waters since 2009. The organisation engages the community to protect the marine life and aquatic environment. They also reduce debris through the Clean Streets and Creeks Program and care for sick and injured marine turtles.
The Whitsunday region supports the Last Straw campaign by using paper straws. For more information, visit their website.
How Visitors Can Contribute
Visitors play a crucial role in preserving The Whitsundays. Here’s how you can help during your stay:
- Choose eco-certified accommodation and tour providers
- Take part in beach clean-ups or conservation activities
- Follow the “Leave No Trace” principles when visiting natural areas
- Reduce single-use plastics and recycle where possible
By working together, we can ensure that The Whitsundays remains a pristine paradise for generations to come. Join us in our commitment to sustainable tourism and help protect this extraordinary part of the world.
How Visitors Can Contribute
Visitors play a crucial role in preserving The Whitsundays. Here’s how you can help during your stay:
- Choose eco-certified accommodation and tour providers
- Take part in beach clean-ups or conservation activities
- Follow the “Leave No Trace” principles when visiting natural areas
- Reduce single-use plastics and recycle where possible
By working together, we can ensure that The Whitsundays remains a pristine paradise for generations to come. Join us in our commitment to sustainable tourism and help protect this extraordinary part of the world.
Certification and Sustainable Practices
Many tourism operators in The Whitsundays have achieved Advanced Eco Certification through Ecotourism Australia. This certification recognises businesses that are committed to sustainable practices, conservation efforts, and delivering high-quality, nature-based experiences. Eco-certified businesses in The Whitsundays implement practices that minimise environmental impact, including:
- Use of eco-friendly technologies
- Reduction of carbon emissions
- Efficient energy consumption
- Responsible waste management
Certification and Sustainable Practices
Many tourism operators in The Whitsundays have achieved Advanced Eco Certification through Ecotourism Australia. This certification recognises businesses that are committed to sustainable practices, conservation efforts, and delivering high-quality, nature-based experiences. Eco-certified businesses in The Whitsundays implement practices that minimise environmental impact, including:
- Use of eco-friendly technologies
- Reduction of carbon emissions
- Efficient energy consumption
- Responsible waste management
EarthCheck Certification
The EarthCheck certification programme provides a comprehensive framework for tourism operators to achieve sustainable outcomes. Through this globally recognised programme, businesses in The Whitsundays are striving to reduce their environmental impact and promote long-term sustainability.
EarthCheck Certification
The EarthCheck certification programme provides a comprehensive framework for tourism operators to achieve sustainable outcomes. Through this globally recognised programme, businesses in The Whitsundays are striving to reduce their environmental impact and promote long-term sustainability.
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