Urgently enforce protective actions to safeguard the Great Barrier Reef, as advocated by UNESCO.
The proposed discussion agenda for the World Heritage Committee, slated for next month in New Delhi, includes a call for Australia to submit an updated preservation status report for the Great Barrier Reef by thestart of the New Year. The decision highlights the need for "immediate and sustainable actions" to preserve this valuable heritage site.
On a positive note, Australia's Environment Minister, Tanya Plibersek, hailed the decision to keep the Reef off the list of endangered World Heritage sites as a victory for her nation on Tuesday. She emphasized the efforts being put forth, which include tackling climate change, enhancing local water quality, safeguarding marine life, combatting invasive species, and pouring record amounts into reef programs.
The Great Barrier Reef is home to around 2500 reefs and over 900 islands, serving as a habitat for over 600 coral species and more than 1600 fish species. Over the years, this marvel has been battling coral bleaching, a condition caused by rising ocean temperatures linked to climate change. Stressed corals expel the vibrant algae dwelling within them, their primary food source, leading to bleaching.
Recovered bleached corals can regain their health if temperature decline occurs and external factors like overfishing and pollution are minimized. However, the severity of damages plays a significant role in the recovery process.
In April, the responsible Australian Marine Park Authority reported a devastating level of coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef, marking the worst bleaching event ever observed. Unusual for the summer season, or Europe's winter in Australia, over 90% of the corals were impacted.
