Green Zones – Protecting Important and Sensitive Areas

Green Zones are vital marine sanctuaries where fishing and extraction are completely banned. They offer the highest level of protection in the Marine Park that still allows public access.

• They provide safe havens where marine life can feed, breed, and recover – helping keep the entire Reef healthy and resilient.
• They cover about 33% of the Marine Park – that’s over 100,000 km², roughly the size of Iceland.
• They boost fish populations, which spill over into nearby fishing zones and support healthy fisheries.

Has It Worked?

Absolutely. Scientific monitoring shows in Green Zones:

• There are 54% more coral trout compared to fished areas, within 18–24 months.
• There is 122% more total fish biomass compared to fished zones.
• Coral trout are larger, older, and more fertile, helping repopulate the wider Reef.
• Reefs are more resilient to cyclones, coral bleaching, and crown-of-thorns outbreaks.

Lady Elliot Island has been within a Green Zone for over 20 years. Next time you snorkel around the island, keep an eye out for all the big, healthy fish like coral trout and groupers – you’re seeing 20 years of protection in action.

How You Can Help Protect Green Zones

• Respect Green Zone boundaries
• Report illegal fishing
• Choose sustainable tourism operators
• Reduce pollution and waste
• Learn and educate others

Together, we can ensure these vital areas continue to thrive for generations to come.