The Great Barrier Reef does not need any introduction, being one of the seven natural wonders of Earth. It stretches to a vast area along the northeastern part of Australia over 2300 kilometers, comprising 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. It is equally famous among nature lovers, ecosystem researchers, and tourists.

However, many profound changes have occurred over the past decade, threatening the marine life in these reefs. As a tourist, you must play your part in conserving natural resources. I will tell you some tips on how to be a sustainable tourist at Great Barrier Reef.

Being a sustainable tourist, you will not be helping marine life but preserving their marvelous wonder for future generations to witness.

Choose Eco-Friendly Tour Operators

Since the bleaching incident of the Great Barrier Reef in 2016, Eco Tourism Australia has been registering a tour organization offering eco-friendly practices. Great Barrier Reef eco-tourism with a trained staff that will guide you only to follow practices that will cause no harm to the environment.

While booking your tour, ensure the company is certified by Eco Tourism Australia. Alongside providing detailed site visits, they offer many eco-friendly programs, such as monitoring marine health, recycling, waste reduction, and using sustainable energy sources.

Careful Snorkeling and Driving

While enjoying the in-depth life of the Great Barrier Reef by snorkeling or diving, choose eco-friendly options. First, choose a company that offers Eco-friendly equipment certified by Eco Tourism Australia. That equipment uses biodegradable materials and does not secrete any chemicals in the water.

Respect the natural body, like avoiding standing and touching corals or other marine life. They are only for watching, so admiring them from a distance will make a significant difference in the long run.

Choose the significant barrier reef submarines that are eco-friendly and certified, too. These do not release harmful chemicals during their time in the water. They use biodegradable techniques that will not compromise your experience as well as will not disturb marine life.

Wear Sustainable Clothes and Accessories

Most of us might not think about it being a severe issue. What we wear, apply, and use in daily life dramatically impacts the ecosystem, so when you visit the Great Barrier Reef, only wear clothing made from eco-friendly fabric. It must not include any plastic; it will directly harm marine life.

A study done by Achieves of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology in 2015 revealed that oxybenzone is a significant cause of inducing the corals' bleaching process. This chemical is found in the regular sunscreens that you apply. That means that you should look for sunscreen that does not contain oxybenzone.

It concerns that sunscreens are not labeled "reef friendly." So, all you can do is check the chemicals on the labeling and make sure it doesn't contain exfoliating beads, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor, PABA, Parabens, Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, and Octocrylene.

Choose an Eco-tourism Resort for Stay

Moving forward to sustainable great barrier reef staying tips, choose the resorts that have environmentally friendly built. They do not only work for your memorable stay but also play a role in preserving the area of the Great Barrier Reef.

Lizard Island Resort:

One of the most famous resorts is Lizard Island Resort, 250km north of Cains. The resort shares land with a research station operated by the Australian Museum. Since 2018, the resort has been very strict, eliminating dues of any plastic and recycling half of its waste.

Heron Island Resort:

The next on this list is Heron Island Resort, famous for its turtles. There are around twenty breathtaking diving sites that you can explore. Additionally, you can visit the University of Queensland research station and fund nature conserving projects.

Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort:

Stay in Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort if you visit Lady Elliot Island. The area comes under a highly protective "Green Zone," home to more than 1200 marine species.

Participate in Conservation Projects

There are a lot of research and projects on preserving marine life in the Great Barrier Reef. You can become a sustainable tourist by participating in these projects and research.

Reef-Check Australia:

It specializes in reef reach and provides vital education to the citizens. They have activities like collecting data and opinions to help preserve reef habitats.

Tongaroa Blue Foundation:

This non-profit organization has taken the initiative to clean the Great Barrier Reef of debris. They have several programs and projects over the year in which you can participate according to your suitability.

Eye on the Reef:

They have several ongoing programs that urge visitors to collect information regarding the sustainable health of the reef. Tourists can take pictures and share their perspective on reef health and how to better it on the Eye on the Reef application.

Education about the Great Barrier Reef

Sustainability of the ecosystem is like a chained process; however, it is started on a personal level but rolls off in the form of a chain and educating others in the surroundings. Learn about the marine life found in the reef. Know that your irresponsible actions are directly impacting marine life.

By educating yourself about the basics, you will be doing great help to sustain the reef's environment. Keep information private; educate your fellow travelers too. If you see someone harming the ecosystem, guide them to a proper and sustainable alternate way to do things.

Final Thoughts

Now, you know how to be a sustainable tourist at the Great Barrier Reef when there is a grave threat to marine life. Be responsible for your actions; do not use things or participate in activities that cause harm to marine life. Choose eco-friendly tourist companies and clothing. Research and educate yourself before visiting and participating in a conservation project on the reef.

Do not leave before sharing your feedback and any additional tips to preserve marine life in the comment section.