What is happening?
For the past few centuries, the Great Barrier Reef has been greatly impacted by the climate change. The changes of climate to extreme warm conditions have led to the increase of ocean temperature and ocean acidifications. Since coral reefs are naturally sensitive to warm and acidic waters, the climate change thus poses a threat to its health and longevity. Additionally, in recent news, experts have asserted that climate change is the ultimate reason behind this year’s March coral bleaching occasion, which is identified as “the worst on record” (News, 2016). This further strengthens the need for the government agency to give their utmost attention on the issue of climate change.
How did coral bleaching happen?
The emissions of greenhouse gases which mainly consist of carbon dioxide are commonly produced by human actions such as the burning of waste and fossil fuels. The atmosphere that is occupied by the greenhouse gases will trap more energy from the sun, which makes the oceans absorb more heat from its surrounding. Likewise, the release of excessive carbon dioxide into the atmosphere will dissolve into oceans and cause ocean acidification. Consequently, increase in ocean temperature and ocean acidification by climate change will lead to coral bleaching. Sea water that …show more content…
The healthy coral reefs in return will help to widen opportunities to the economy and the society. Economically, coral reefs attract millions of tourists every year, being an important source of income to the coral reef communities. Socially, the conservation of the Reef will give the opportunity for people around the world to enjoy the beauty of Australia’s natural heritage. Coral reefs species also help people in enhancing new medical compounds and technology to treat some serious
For the past few centuries, the Great Barrier Reef has been greatly impacted by the climate change. The changes of climate to extreme warm conditions have led to the increase of ocean temperature and ocean acidifications. Since coral reefs are naturally sensitive to warm and acidic waters, the climate change thus poses a threat to its health and longevity. Additionally, in recent news, experts have asserted that climate change is the ultimate reason behind this year’s March coral bleaching occasion, which is identified as “the worst on record” (News, 2016). This further strengthens the need for the government agency to give their utmost attention on the issue of climate change.
How did coral bleaching happen?
The emissions of greenhouse gases which mainly consist of carbon dioxide are commonly produced by human actions such as the burning of waste and fossil fuels. The atmosphere that is occupied by the greenhouse gases will trap more energy from the sun, which makes the oceans absorb more heat from its surrounding. Likewise, the release of excessive carbon dioxide into the atmosphere will dissolve into oceans and cause ocean acidification. Consequently, increase in ocean temperature and ocean acidification by climate change will lead to coral bleaching. Sea water that …show more content…
The healthy coral reefs in return will help to widen opportunities to the economy and the society. Economically, coral reefs attract millions of tourists every year, being an important source of income to the coral reef communities. Socially, the conservation of the Reef will give the opportunity for people around the world to enjoy the beauty of Australia’s natural heritage. Coral reefs species also help people in enhancing new medical compounds and technology to treat some serious