CORAL Builds Sustainable Destinations Along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef

Marine Recreation Standards

In late 2004, CORAL began work on a multilateral initiative to address threats to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef and has made great strides in improving the environmental and economic sustainability of the marine tourism sector throughout the region. Funded primarily by the United Nations Foundation (UNF), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Oak Foundation, the work of the Mesoamerican Reef Alliance (MAR) culminated in 2007 with the publication of the Voluntary Standards for Marine Recreation in the Mesoamerican Reef System: Scuba Diving Services, Snorkeling Services, and Recreational Boat Operations. The result of a pioneering initiative that brought together stakeholders from across the region to collaborate on and codify best practices to minimize the environmental footprint of tour operations on the reef, the standards are currently being implemented throughout the Mesoamerican region. More »

Sustainable Marine Recreation Environmental Walk-Through Program

Capitalizing on the success of the marine recreation standards, training in sustainable marine recreation, and facilitation of multiple local conservation initiatives across the region, CORAL is expanding and deepening its programs throughout Mexico, Belize, and Honduras. In partnership with Conservation International, we have developed a comprehensive environmental performance assessment program for marine operators. Launched in 2007, the Sustainable Marine Recreation Environmental Walk-Through Program advises marine recreation providers on improving environmental practices and reducing impacts on coral reef ecosystems. CORAL continues to facilitate unprecedented partnerships between local communities, government leaders, and marine recreation providers to develop locally designed conservation initiatives such as improvements to marine park infrastructure, installation of mooring buoys, formation and support of marine park patrols, and outreach for environmental education and awareness programs. Back to Caribbean/Latin America »