The Reef-World Foundation this week announced it has appointed Dr. Alex Brylske as Green Fins Development Lead for North America and the Caribbean.
In this role, Brylske will support development, stakeholder engagement and funding mobilization to expand the implementation of the Green Fins initiative across the region.
Brylske will engage governments, tourism authorities, dive training agencies, industry associations, marine conservation organizations, and prospective funding partners. His work will help establish practical regional pathways for the adoption of Green Fins, build local capacity, and strengthen demand for sustainable, reef-positive marine tourism.
Brylske said:
“Green Fins offers a proven framework for turning the dive and marine tourism sector into a more effective force for coral reef conservation. I am honored to help advance that work across North America and especially in the Caribbean, where the health of coral reefs is central not only to biodiversity but also to livelihoods, community well-being, and the visitor experiences that sustain coastal economies. Our opportunity is to make sustainable practices a core part of how the dive industry delivers value.”
Brylske is the founder and president of Ocean Education International (OEI), a consulting and training organization that partners with dive operators, destinations, governments and NGOs to align business performance, ocean stewardship, and social responsibility. OEI’s work emphasizes practical education, meaningful guest experiences, and stronger environmental leadership among tourism professionals.
Reef-World Foundation Executive Director Chloe Harvey said:
“Alex brings a rare combination of deep industry knowledge, practical sustainable tourism expertise, and a longstanding commitment to ocean education. His experience developing professionals and helping tourism businesses connect conservation with stronger visitor experiences will be invaluable as Green Fins works with partners across North America and the Caribbean to create scalable pathways to reef protection.”
Under the mandate, Brylske will help identify and develop strategic partnerships, explore sustainable financing and grant opportunities, and position Green Fins within relevant frameworks for sustainable tourism, the blue economy and coral reef conservation. His appointment supports the Green Fins Transformation Strategy, including efforts to strengthen financial, governance, delivery, and market transformation for sustainable marine tourism.
