Validation Workshop – Best Practice Guide for Boat Operators

A validation workshop was organised on Thursday 7th November, for boat operators and SPGA Marine Operations staff for feedback and discussions on a newly developed Best Practice Guide which has been undertaken by Bee Ecological Consulting, through the GOS-GEF-UNDP Ridge to Reef Project.

The Best Practice Guide, outlines permissible activities within each Marine Park and further allows for enhanced enforcement and conservation efforts. The Guide stipulates how to undertake specific activities such as mooring, anchoring, interactions with megafauna and waste disposal. The comprehensive Guide was developed based on consultations undertaken with key stakeholders who operate within the Parks, as well as utilizing relevant policies, regulations and management plans.

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Through increased education, the Guide aims to reduce the adverse impacts of tourism activities on coral reef ecosystems, consequently ensuring sustainable tourism and conservation of marine biodiversity. Once finalised, with the inclusion of recommendations and suggestions made during the workshop, the Guide in addition to its accompanying posters will be shared with all relevant stakeholders and widely through digital mediums.

“We are aware that climate change is causing chaos and this Guide will help us to mitigate many of these human impacts which we have observed in the marine parks- be it how to properly use mooring facilities, anchoring in designated areas or how to not disturb mega fauna. In turn this will allow us to deliver greater service”, said Mr. Cedras.