What's Happening?
The Great Barrier Reef has suffered its largest annual drop in live coral since the 1980s, according to a report by the Australian Institute of Marine Science. The decline is attributed to a mass coral bleaching event in early 2024, exacerbated by cyclones and flooding. The northern and southern sections of the reef experienced the most significant losses, with coral cover falling by 25% and 30%, respectively. Scientists warn that the reef's coral cover is becoming increasingly volatile, posing a threat to its long-term stability.
AD
Why It's Important?
The decline in coral cover highlights the severe impact of climate change on marine ecosystems. Coral reefs are vital for biodiversity, supporting fisheries and tourism industries that are crucial to local economies. The ongoing bleaching events threaten the reef's ability to recover, with implications for global conservation efforts. The situation underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and reducing emissions to protect vulnerable ecosystems.
What's Next?
The report comes ahead of the Australian government's announcement of its emissions reduction target for 2035. There is pressure on the government to set ambitious targets aligned with global efforts to limit temperature increases. The future of the Great Barrier Reef depends on effective climate action, with scientists advocating for measures to stabilize temperatures and mitigate the root causes of coral bleaching.
