UNESCO Removes Australia’s Great Barrier Reef From Its Danger List; Here’s Why

The Great Barrier Reef of Australia, a majestic wonder of the natural world, stands as a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty of our planet’s marine ecosystems. Sadly, The Great Barrier Reef, like many natural wonders, has faced significant threats to its ecosystem in the past. But now, in a “wave” of good news, UNESCO has officially taken the reef’s name off its danger list. 

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef Removed From UNESCO’s Danger List

The Australian government’s efforts and commitments to keeping the reef clean led UNESCO to remove Australia’s Great Barrier Reef from its “in danger” list. The Great Barrier Reef, the planet’s biggest coral reef ecosystem is one of the most vital natural wonders. It also is a tourist attraction globally and in Australia. 

Recently, the reef faced “serious threats” from pollution, warming oceans, and frequent coral bleaching events. This has led the UNESCO committee to include it in the danger list. However, in its latest report, the UNESCO panel “noted with appreciation” the commitments and actions undertaken by the Australian government, reported Times Travel.

As a result, the Great Barrier Reef has been removed from the “in danger” list, signalling a positive step towards its preservation. For a long time, Australia has been striving to remove the Great Barrier Reef from the danger list to preserve its heritage status. 

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How Will This Affect The Country’s Tourism Sector?

Losing this status could damage the reef’s reputation as a prime attraction in the country. Therefore, efforts to protect and safeguard the reef are of utmost importance. Reports indicate that the reef contributes nearly A$6 billion ($4 billion) to the economy and supports 64,000 jobs. 

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the reef is on a stronger and more sustainable path due to significant progress made on climate change. And water quality, and sustainable fishing, as mentioned in the draft decision, stated Times Travel.

According to him, UNESCO does not completely clear the reef. He indicated the need for more important steps to ensure its permanent removal from the endangered list. To protect the reef, the Australian government has allocated A$1.2 billion. By February 2024, they will submit a progress report to the UN, stated the reports. 

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Have you visited the Great Barrier Reef in Australia yet? If so, tell us all about your experience in the comments.

Cover image courtesy: Canva (Representative Image)