Green Fins Thailand

Green Fins is a globally recognized conservation initiative developed by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and The Reef-World Foundation. Its mission is to protect and conserve coral reefs and associated marine ecosystems by promoting sustainable marine tourism practices. The program provides the only internationally recognized environmental standards for the diving and snorkeling industry.

Program Components and Methodology

Green Fins works with marine tourism operators, communities, and governments to address the most common environmental threats posed by the industry. The initiative is centered on a 15-point Code of Conduct that covers both in-water and on-land practices.

The program’s methodology includes:

• Environmental Assessments: In countries with an active national Green Fins team, certified members receive an annual in-person assessment. Trained assessors evaluate the operator’s compliance with the Code of Conduct and identify areas for improvement. Operators are given a score, with a lower score indicating a smaller environmental footprint. Based on their performance, they receive a tiered membership status of Bronze, Silver, or Gold.
• Capacity Building and Training: Green Fins provides training for all dive and snorkel center staff on environmental best practices. This empowers them to become “environmental ambassadors” and role models for tourists.
• Educational Resources: The program offers a wealth of resources, including a digital platform, to help operators implement low-cost, practical solutions to environmental challenges. These resources also educate tourists on how to be more environmentally friendly.
• Digital Membership: For operators outside of active Green Fins countries, a digital membership is available. This allows them to self-manage their sustainability journey through an online platform, including a self-evaluation tool and action plan.

Impact and Benefits

Green Fins provides a clear, actionable framework for businesses to reduce their environmental impact. By adopting these standards, operators can:

• Protect Marine Ecosystems: They help mitigate local pressures on reefs, such as improper anchoring, chemical pollution, and irresponsible diver behavior, which in turn makes the ecosystems more resilient to global threats like climate change.
• Enhance Brand Reputation: The program allows operators to demonstrate a verifiable commitment to environmental stewardship, attracting the growing number of eco-conscious tourists. This can lead to increased bookings and brand loyalty.
• Improve Operational Efficiency: By implementing sustainable practices, operators can also find ways to reduce waste and conserve resources, leading to long-term cost savings.

Ultimately, Green Fins creates a positive feedback loop: as more operators become members, the demand for sustainable tourism grows, encouraging the entire industry to adopt more responsible practices.