The Australian Government is investing an additional AUD 192 million (€116 million) in the protection and management of the Great Barrier Reef. This additional budget aims to improve water quality and preserve the world's largest coral reef.
Editorial, TPO, August 23, 2024 – Australia's Environment and Water Minister Tanya Plibersek has described poor water quality as “one of the biggest threats” to coral reefs, the Australian Associated Press reported.
She explains that pollution not only affects seagrasses and mangroves, but also complicates the ability of coral reefs to recover from bleaching: “It also makes it more difficult for coral reefs to recover after bleaching.”
broad approach
The new program focuses on reducing the runoff of pesticides and nutrients from agricultural lands to coral reefs. In addition, measures are being taken against invasive animal species that damage soils and wetlands, which is critical to maintaining water quality.
The Great Barrier Reef, which stretches over 2,300 kilometres, is home to more than 600 species of coral and 1,625 species of fish. This year, as in previous years, the reef has experienced severe coral bleaching due to high water temperatures.
By 2024, up to 81% of coral reefs will suffer bleaching, although recovery is still possible.
Serious threats from coral bleaching
UNESCO has warned of the serious threats to the Great Barrier Reef as a result of bleaching, and urged the Australian government to take urgent action.
According to the United Nations, coral reefs are “critically endangered.”
The government, based in the Australian capital Canberra, has pledged to invest a total of A$1.2 billion in protecting coral reefs along the east coast.
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