The reef generates 600,000 jobs and €3.9 billion in revenue every year
Australia must step up its efforts to hopefully avoid classification of the Great Barrier Reef as an “in danger” World Heritage site, according to an expert report released on Monday. According to two experts from UNESCO and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the site’s degradation continues under the combined effects of global warming and various pollution related to agriculture and fisheries.
The Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s top tourist attractions and its classification as an “endangered” site could significantly tarnish its appeal to international visitors. The reef generates 600,000 jobs and €3.9 billion in revenue each year, according to estimates by the Australian Marine Conservation Society.
Australia had in July 2021 avoided UNESCO adding the Great Barrier Reef to its list of World Heritage Sites in Danger, despite concern from the scientific community about the degradation of this unique ecosystem. The World Heritage Committee had decided to postpone that decision, after intense pressure from Australia.
“Despite unprecedented scientific and management efforts in recent years” by Australia, “the Outstanding Universal Value of the area is significantly affected by climate change factors,” the new report says. The site’s ability to withstand these impacts is “substantially compromised”, in particular – but not exclusively – due to the degradation of water quality.
