A go-to guide for future-proofing the marine industry and protecting the Great Barrier Reef against climate change is now available thanks to the collaboration of marine managers, industry experts and researchers.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) Director Dr Paul Marshall said the Climate Change Adaptation Principles report released today would offer guidance to Reef users, marine industry representatives and conservationists in adapting to the impacts of climate change.

"Marine industries reliant on the Great Barrier Reef will need support and knowledge to adapt their business practices as changes in the Reef's ecosystem occur as a result of climate change," said Dr Marshall. 

"An initiative of the GBRMPA and the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility (NCCARF), this report offers suggestions on how to best develop, communicate and implement climate change adaption plans.

"The report uses hypothetical, realistic examples of how climate change could impact on Reef users and how the adaption principles could be utilised to change business practices to overcome the impacts of climate change.

"The principles detailed in the report were developed following a Bringing Adaption to Life workshop that brought together commercial fishers, tourism operators, marine managers and researchers. 

"As a Marine management agency GBRMPA is focusing not only on building the resilience of the Reef against climate change but also the industries and Reef users who rely upon it," said Dr Marshall.

Under the Climate Change Action Plan the GBRMPA has already been working with industries including the seafood, tourism and aquarium collection fishery to adapt to climate change.

Director of NCCARF Professor Jean Palutikof said the principles reflect the knowledge and expertise of researchers, resource managers, policy makers and resource users who have direct experience in developing or applying adaptation knowledge.

"The guide focuses on positive action, flexible thinking and open communication, urging people to keep things simple and do what they can achieve now."

To see video clips of climate change adaption experts talking at the Bringing Adaption to Life Workshop go to www.gbrmpa.gov.au. 

Missed a story? Check out our extensive News Archive.