How the Australian Government is Protecting the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most well-known and beautiful natural phenomena in the world. Sprawling out over 344,400 square kilometres, it’s no small task to preserve and look after this spectacular World Heritage site.

Australia is dedicated to protecting the reef, its marine life and the hundreds of paradise islands that fleck the area. For almost half a century, the country has implemented numerous plans to ensure the reef remains healthy and natural. Additionally providing it with the tools and care it needs to thrive in its ever evolving environment.

The initiatives seem to be paying off, too, as it is now thought to be one of the best looked-after coral systems in the world. Though it still endures countless pressures from natural sources as well as man-made coastal developments. Every year, the Australian and Queensland governments put forward $200 million towards preserving and maintaining the reef. Here are some of the ways they do that.

• Long-Term Sustainability Plan

  

  For the reef to flourish for many more years, the government must ensure it has laid out a long-term plan. This plan is the main form of preservation and a key component aided by the UNESCO World Heritage Site Committee, They regularly meet to review the conservation efforts and to analyse further initiatives.

• Dugong and Turtle Protection Plan

  

  Along with the many coral varieties and islands that dot the Great Barrier Reef, plans have been put in place to protect and conserve the vibrant marine life. The Reef Trust have put together a plan to reduce poaching and illegal hunting.

• Reef Water Quality Protection Plan

  There are many facets to protecting the Great Barrier Reef, including keeping the water clean – a difficult task when contaminated water runs in from surrounding areas. This plan aims to put together a tight framework that will ensure the reef’s water is of the highest quality it can be.

  

• North-East Shipping Management Plan

  The Great Barrier Reef is used for numerous different activities. As well as diving and tourism pursuits, it is also a well-trodden thoroughfare for ships. The Federal and Queensland governments have begun talks about ways in which the area can be made safer for ships. The report highlights risks that are common in the reef and its surrounding waters.

  
  Dead coral is stripped of its usual bright colour

These are only a few ways in which the Australian government is looking to protect the Great Barrier Reef and its surroundings, bringing together numerous initiatives and creating campaigns that resonate with tourists as well as locals. The Question is could we be doing more, and the answer is undoubtedly YES!!

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