UNESCO has granted Australia an extension to address the challenges facing the Great Barrier Reef and prevent its inclusion on the endangered list. The World Heritage Committee recognized the significant threats the reef is facing, including coral bleaching. While the reef has been excluded from the “in danger” list for now, Australia must provide a progress report in 2024 detailing its efforts to mitigate climate change and water quality issues.
Australia has been campaigning against the Great Barrier Reef’s endangered designation on the World Heritage list. The occurrence of four mass coral bleaching events since 2016, including an unprecedented incident during a La Niña phase in 2022, has raised concerns. A staggering 91 percent of the reef experienced bleaching during this period. Australia is obligated to submit a progress report by February 2024 outlining its actions to preserve the reef.
The impending El Niño is adding to the concerns over coral bleaching. The Australian Marine Conservation Society and the Australian Institute of Marine Science have expressed worry about the risks posed by marine heatwaves. Coral reefs globally are facing multiple threats, including water pollution, overfishing, coastal development, and carbon pollution. Rising temperatures and degraded water quality weaken coral populations, making them more susceptible to diseases and mortality. Urgent action to reduce carbon emissions and limit temperature increases is crucial to the survival of coral reefs worldwide.