A new strategy was launched on Monday to tackle climate change and protect Australia's 4.1 billion U.S. dollar Great Barrier Reef tourism industry.

The plan was revealed at the Tourism Futures Conference on the Gold Coast.

It has been compiled by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, Queensland Tourism Industry Council and Association of Marine Park Tourism Operators.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority chairman Russell Reichelt said climate change is the single biggest threat facing the reef.

"One of the key features is that it was developed by industry, but with the marine park authority as a combined effort," he said.

The plan covered raising awareness among operators and tourists, reducing the carbon footprint of tourism operators and improving their energy efficiency.

The strategy also included monitoring and reporting changes, improving the resilience of the reef itself, and integrating climate change with business operations and planning.

(Xinhua News Agency August 17, 2009)