Tag: Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef could be hit with repeat coral bleaching events every two years by 2034 under current greenhouse gas pollution rates, according to a new report by Climate Council, revealing that accelerating climate change has driven a 54% increase in the number of marine heatwave days each year.

A new electronic tracking system is being tested, which will use tourists' handprints in order to identify and monitor them. The new system is being trialled on the Great Barrier Reef, aiming to reduce the risk of divers and snorkellers that are left behind. The system uses a palm vein scanning technology and facial recognition.

Australian and New Zealand scientific research organisations have established the first formal collaboration aimed at promoting the safe, efficient and environmentally responsible operation of their research ships. The group entitled `Research Vessels Of New Zealand and Australia’ has been led by New Zealand’s National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research.

Australia will allocate A$500 million ($379.10 million), in an attempt to protect the Great Barrier Reef. Specifically, the funding will aim to improve the water quality and safeguard the Coral Reef from starfish attacks. Part of the funding will make sure that sediment, nitrogen and pesticide won't end up in the coral reef, damaging its ecosystem.

Shipping on the Great Barrier Reef is expected to increase by 250% during the next 20 years. This development, along with a recent navigational infringement that was noted by a cruise ship, has raised concerns that the marine park's maritime management must be reviewed. Increased traffic also increases the risk for human error, as prevention systems will not always operate correctly.

RMI issued a marine notice setting out the requirements for complying with IMO Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas. A PSSA is an area provided special protection through IMO because of its ecological, socio-economic or scientific significance, and which may be vulnerable to damage by international maritime activities. 

Australia’s leading research organisations will collaborate to build resilience and repair the Great Barrier Reef, following the country's Federal Government announcement of $60 million for measures aimed at protecting the Great Barrier Reef.

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority awarded the Reef and Rainforest Research Centre a $5.6 million tender to operate the second crown-of-thorns starfish control vessel. It is part of efforts to protect Great Barrier Reef health by culling coral eating crown-of-thorns starfish over the next three years.

On 3 April 2010, the Chinese bulk coal carrier Shen Neng I ran aground on Douglas Shoal causing direct impact the southern Great Barrier Reef. The owners and insurers of the Chinese bulk carrier Shen Neng 1 have accepted their responsibility to pay for damage six years later .