Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Worry Globally, Act Locally
Floating in the warming waters of the GBR, feeling the immensity of the reef and the prob-
lem that is climate change, it's easy to feel that action is futile. But science is showing that
local efforts can make a difference. Reducing the amount of nutrients (from fertilisers) that
enter GBR waters may increase the tolerance of corals to warmer seas, decrease crown-of-
thorns outbreaks and help corals maintain dominance over seaweeds. State and federal gov-
ernments are therefore working with farmers to improve practices and reduce the losses of
chemicals and valuable soil into the reef, and their efforts have already begun to deliver en-
couraging results.
Science also suggests that those fishing practices that maintain abundant herbivorous
fish on the reefs may also be vital in keeping corals in the ascendancy. Fishing is carefully
regulated, making the GBR a rare example of a coral-reef system that maintains a healthy
coral-seaweed balance while still delivering sustainable seafood. There is no commercial
use of fish traps or spears, and responsible fishing practices adopted by most fishers in the
GBR also mean that sharks are still a common sight (although more work needs to be done
to secure the future of these important predators). Bottom trawling for prawns (shrimp) has
been dramatically scaled back over recent decades, with associated improvements in the
health of the soft-seabed communities between reef outcrops. Other issues on the radar for
the GBR include ship groundings, dredging and port expansion.
The GBR tourism industry is a world leader in sustainable, eco-friendly and climate-
friendly practices. Visiting the reef with an eco-accredited tourism business is not only a
great way to experience the beauty and wonder of coral reefs; it's also one of the best
things you can do to help the GBR, a small part of your fare directly supporting reef re-
search and management.
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