Green Fins initiative in Jordan achieves 51% reduction in threats to Aqaba Marine Reserve
Led by Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) and supported by Green Fins’ international coordinator, The Reef-World Foundation, Green Fins Jordan is demonstrating how government commitment combined with industry action can rapidly transform a dive destination.
The programme’s success is evident through several key metrics tracked during annual Green Fins assessments:
- Elimination of anchoring damage from Green Fins Members
- 69% reduction in diver contact with fragile coral reefs
- 100% halt to the display and sale of marine life
- 46% improvement in waste management practices
- 28% reduction in chemical discharge into marine environments
- 27% increase in positive role model behaviour among dive guides
“This achievement not only attracts more divers to Aqaba but also honours ASEZA’s dedication to prioritising resources for this vital program,” said Nayef AL Fayez, ASEZA Chief Commissioner. “These remarkable improvements demonstrate that with proper guidance and commitment, the diving industry can reduce its environmental impact significantly. We’re proud to see the progress made by Green Fins Members, and this reinforces the importance of this initiative for our sustainability agenda. By choosing Green Fins operators, divers are directly contributing to the protection of our marine treasures for future generations while enjoying world-class underwater experiences.”
A Prime Destination for Eco-Conscious Divers
The designation of the Aqaba Marine Reserve in 2020 was made possible through the commitment and support of King Abdullah II, who considers marine conservation a national priority. This high-level backing has enabled ASEZA to implement effective management strategies, including Green Fins, ensuring that diving operations maintain the ecological integrity of this unique ecosystem.
“Divers are increasingly making sustainable choices,” noted JJ Jarvey, Operations Director at The Reef-World Foundation. “Aqaba now offers the compelling proposition of experiencing some of the world’s most resilient coral reefs while knowing their visit contributes to reef protection rather than degradation.”
Dive operators committed to best environmental practices
Eleven Jordanian dive operators have achieved Green Fins certification in Aqaba, demonstrating their commitment to environmental best practices:
- Red Sea Dive Center
- Arab Divers
- Deep Blue Dive Center
- Coral Garden Diving Center
- Aqaba Sharks Bay Divers
- Royal Diving Club
- Bait al-Aqaba Dive Resort
- Hammerhead Diving Center
- Rio Dive Center Aqaba
- Red Coral Dive Centre
- Sea Wonders Diving Center
These operators are pioneering a new standard for sustainable diving in the region, proving that environmental protection and business success can go hand-in-hand.
Going forward
In addition to expanding the programme, future initiatives will focus on conducting meaningful awareness sessions for both the local community and visitors. This will include citizen science-driven reef monitoring, where divers and local residents can actively contribute to the health and monitoring of coral reefs, as well as clean-up dives aimed at reducing marine litter and improving water quality.
“Divers are now looking for more than just an experience; they want to know that their activities are contributing to the preservation of our marine ecosystems. By expanding the Green Fins programme, we’re empowering more businesses and individuals to play an active role in protecting Aqaba’s reefs for generations to come,” added Dom Wyszogrodzki, Green Fins Local Management Team Leader.
Dive operators interested in joining the Green Fins programme can learn more at www.greenfins.net. For divers planning their next trip in Aqaba, choosing Green Fins-certified operators means experiencing extraordinary underwater environments while being part of the solution.
Main image: DepositPhotos
Image credits:
- Red Sea coral: Deposit Photos
