Question

Is the Great Barrier Reef worth saving?

Answer 1

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef ecosystem on earth and one of the best managed marine areas in the world. At 348 000 square kilometres, the Reef is one of the richest and most diverse natural ecosystems on Earth.  

The unique qualities of this property were recognised in 1981 when it was inscribed on the World Heritage List.  

The Great Barrier Reef is also included in the National Heritage List, as of May 2007.  

A survey conducted in May 2014 revealed 89% of Australians agree that protecting the Great Barrier Reef is considered the most important environmental issue within the country.  

Unfortunately, there are many proposals that would see almost 100 million tonnes of dredging in the Reef's waters. Despite community outrage, the governments of Queensland and Australia have not yet been seen responding to this threat.