Critical Risk

Great Barrier Reef

Australia • Natural Heritage • Threatened by climate change and coral bleaching

History and Importance

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world and stretches for more than 2,300 kilometers along the coast of Australia.

The reef contains thousands of coral reefs and islands and supports an enormous variety of marine life, including fish, sea turtles, sharks, and coral species.

Current Threats

Climate change is the greatest threat to the Great Barrier Reef. Rising ocean temperatures cause coral bleaching, which weakens and can eventually kill coral ecosystems.

Pollution, overfishing, coastal development, and severe weather events also place pressure on the reef and its marine biodiversity.

Preservation Efforts

Scientists and conservation organizations continue working to monitor reef health, restore damaged coral areas, and reduce environmental harm.

Preservation efforts also focus on reducing pollution, improving marine protection policies, and increasing global awareness about climate change and ocean conservation.

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