Breaking New Ground Great Barrier Reef Nominated for UN Lifetime Achievement Award!

The Great Barrier Reef has been nominated for a Lifetime Achievement Award in the United Nations Environment Programme’s prestigious Champions of the Earth awards. This nomination marks the first time a non-human entity has been nominated for the award, with the Reef Guardian Councils, Traditional Owners, marine biologists, the tourism industry, and Reef Guardian Schools coming together to back the nomination.

The announcement was made on World Earth Day (April 22), with Reef Guardian Council Chair Jeff Baines highlighting the profound impact the Reef has had on both the environment and the people who visit it. “The Great Barrier Reef is hands-down the best candidate for a Lifetime Achievement Award,” he said. “A catalyst for environmental initiatives, the Great Barrier Reef supports First Nations communities, protects marine life and teaches future generations.”

Baines explained that the nomination aims to recognise almost 10,000 years of positive environmental impact by the Reef, with the support of communities across the area. “Sir David Attenborough is among the environmental titans to have won this award, which recognises individuals who have demonstrated decades of impact in protecting the Earth,” he added.

The supporting video for the submission features Traditional Owners discussing the Reef as a teacher, healer, and provider for First Nations communities. Marine biologists and Master Reef Guides also support the nomination, highlighting the Reef’s protection of more than 9,000 species and its role in bringing millions of people together through sustainable initiatives.

Newman Catholic College students, part of the Reef Guardian Schools program, express their awe at learning about the Reef and experiencing its beauty first-hand. “The Great Barrier Reef is a mentor, leading by example in teaching us that you have got to work together for the future of our planet,” they said.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland is launching The Lifetime of Greatness Project to encourage global support. Chief Executive Officer Mark Olsen stated, “The tourism industry has thrown its weight behind this nomination because we see the impact the Great Barrier Reef has on individuals every day. It really is life-changing for many people who visit and finally understand how important this World Heritage area is for biodiversity, Indigenous culture and jobs.”

Great Barrier Reef Foundation Managing Director Anna Marsden added, “The Great Barrier Reef isn’t just an environmental icon — it’s a living entity that has quietly nurtured life for millennia. This is our moment to give back and honour its contribution with the recognition it deserves.”

Tourism and Events Queensland Chief Executive Officer Craig Davidson commented, “The Great Barrier Reef is a worthy candidate for this prestigious award. As the world’s largest coral reef system, it is vital to the environment, the creatures that live amongst it, and the communities that live alongside it.”

Tourism Whitsundays Chief Executive Officer Tim Booth also voiced support, saying, “Every day, we see how the Great Barrier Reef transforms those who experience it, leaving visitors with a deeper sense of connection, purpose and responsibility.”

For more information, visit alifetimeofgreatness.com.

‍