Ecotourism: the Great Barrier Reef
By Kristie L'Ecuyer
The Great Barrier Reef
The Importance
The Great Barrier Reef is important because it:
- provides essential protection for harbors and beaches
- is an important recreational and aesthetic resource for visitors and locals
- is home to a large number of marine species
- serves as a laboratory for scientists and yields many sources of biomedical chemicals
"Ecotourism is the responsible travel to natural areas in order to help conserve the environment and improve the well-being of local people." -Ecotourism Australia
Ecotourism
Tourists come from all around the world to observe the reefs from boats, helicopters, as well as while fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming, generating an estimated $3.5 billion annually for the local economy.
Biodiversity
The Great Barrier Reef is world-renowned for its coral species and stunning array of animals. In addition, it is the biggest single structure in the world made up of living organisms.
Environmental Protection
Organizations such as Ecotourism Australia and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority are committed to protecting the reef's biodiversity by passing laws and regulations as well as keeping the public informed of its importance.