Four Semporna dive operators earn Green Fins eco certification
SEMPORNA: Four dive operators here have been certified under the Green Fins programme, which promotes eco-friendly tourism in marine areas.
The certification, carried out by Reef Check Malaysia and Sabah Parks, helps operators reduce their impact on coral reefs and marine life.
This includes avoiding anchoring on reefs, managing waste properly, and educating tourists on reef protection.
Green Fins, led by the UN Environment Programme, requires operators to undergo yearly assessments and training to improve their environmental practices.
Reef Check Malaysia programme chief Alvin Chelliah said tourism is a major economic driver in Semporna.
"But if it's not managed sustainably, it could have severe long-term consequences on our marine environment.
"The Green Fins programme offers an opportunity for dive operators to play an active role in reducing their environmental footprint while continuing to benefit from tourism," he said in a statement.
The newly-certified Green Fins members in Semporna are Scuba Junkie, Buwan Dive Resort, Bigfin Divers, and Aquaman Semporna.
As part of the programme's capacity-building efforts, Reef Check Malaysia recently trained four new Green Fins assessors in Sabah, including Adzmin Fatta, who is based in Semporna.
"Becoming a Green Fins assessor has deepened my understanding of sustainable tourism and the actions tour operators can take to protect our reefs.
"I'm excited to support more assessments and collaborate with dive operators in Semporna," said Adzmin Fatta.
This initiative is part of the Sustainable Tourism Project by Reef Check Malaysia, supported by the Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah Ministry, MetLife Foundation, and Sabah Parks.
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