Prince Charles is calling for the Great Barrier Reef to be at the heart of plans for a new "blue economy" that seeks to harness the world's oceans for economic growth.

The avid environmentalist made the call as he prepares to visit Queensland's Lady Elliot Island, which lies at the southern tip of the world's largest coral reef.

Prince Charles called on governments, businesses, the development community and non- government groups to collaborate on ideas for sustainable investments that promote coral reef health. Credit:AAP

The prince says the reef is not only one of the world's greatest tourist attractions, but also one of its most vital ecosystems.

But he says the impact from the combined effects of coral-bleaching events and climate change has meant the world has reached a "crossroads" in its ability to protect the Great Barrier Reef and others around the globe, meaning the decisions taken over the next decade will determine their fate.