The collaboration between Qantas and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation marks a significant step towards the restoration and preservation of Australia’s reef systems.
With a commitment of $10 million over 10 years, the Reef Restoration Fund aims to support various initiatives geared towards combating the impacts of climate change on coral reefs.
Key components of the partnership include investments in Coral IVF programs, research on corals with increased heat tolerance, and the development of portable coral nurseries. These efforts will not only aid in restoring the Great Barrier Reef but also extend support to other iconic coral reefs across Australia.
The announcement was made by Great Barrier Reef Foundation Managing Director Anna Marsden and Qantas Group Chief Sustainability Officer Andrew Parker at the Australian Institute of Marine Science’s National Sea Simulator in Townsville. Both emphasized the critical importance of safeguarding coral reefs, which serve as vital ecosystems supporting marine life and providing livelihoods for millions of people worldwide.
Qantas views this partnership as integral to its Nature Action Plan, launched concurrently with the Reef Restoration Fund. As part of its commitment to sustainability, the airline aims to address its impact on nature and biodiversity loss, aligning with its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
The Reef Restoration Fund will support ongoing restoration projects and research initiatives, with a focus on expanding coral restoration techniques, fostering partnerships with local communities and tourism operators, and developing innovative solutions to enhance coral resilience to warming ocean temperatures.
In the initial phase, the Fund will contribute to projects such as Boats4Corals, the Coral Nurture Program, Reef Restoration Adaptation Program (RRAP), and Reef Seed. These projects encompass a range of activities, from training local operators in coral restoration techniques to pioneering new technologies for coral propagation and planting.
Overall, the partnership between Qantas and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation represents a concerted effort to address the urgent threats facing coral reefs and underscores the importance of collective action in preserving these invaluable natural assets for future generations.