Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ) has partnered with Expedia to introduce “Guardian of the Reef,” a new educational platform promoting reef-positive travel choices. The program (launched in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia) aims to educate travelers about the Great Barrier Reef through a series of short videos, then reward them for their efforts.
"This world-first program gives global reach to the mantra of ‘See it. Love it. Protect it,’” said Dr. Eric Fisher, marine biologist and master reef guide for GBR Biology/Reef Unlimited. “Our Great Barrier Reef operators see this every day when their passengers walk away from their Great Barrier Reef experience with a new appreciation of the diversity and beauty of the world's largest ecosystem and a greater understanding of the current health of the reef."
Participants who complete the educational content can earn discounts on Expedia bookings for Great Barrier Reef experiences and enter a drawing to win a trip to the reef. The program was developed in consultation with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and incorporates scientific and environmental education alongside Indigenous wisdom.
The platform connects travelers with eco-certified operators, linking to businesses certified through Ecotourism Australia, EarthCheck or the Zoo and Aquarium Association. The Great Barrier Reef is home to 142 eco-certified operators, representing 30% of Ecotourism Australia's eco-certified operators.
"The educational website will teach travelers about the initiatives underway to protect the Great Barrier Reef for future generations and encourage them to book an eco-certified experience to be part of reef conservation efforts," said Mark Olsen CEO of TTNQ.
As part of the partnership, Expedia will donate $50,000 to the Great Barrier Reef Foundation to support ongoing conservation efforts.
“Expedia Group’s recent Sustainable Travel Study revealed that 90% of travelers prioritize sustainability, indicating their concern about the environmental impact they leave behind,” said Aditi Mohapatra, vice president of global social impact and sustainability for Expedia Group. “To help, Expedia is partnering with Tourism Tropical North Queensland to offer an interactive way to learn about and support the Great Barrier Reef while earning travel discounts along the way. We believe travel is a force for good, and we are proud to support the Great Barrier Reef Foundation with a donation to advance reef conservation.”
The initiative was funded under the Australian Government's $15 million International Tourism Recovery Grants program.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Tourism Tropical North Queensland. It has been fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.
