What are some consequences if the Great Barrier Reef is not cared for?

The Great Barrier Reef is home to an incredibly diverse array of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 400 species of coral, and 4,000 species of mollusks. If the reef is not cared for, many of these species could be lost, as the reef provides them with food, shelter, and breeding grounds.

2. Impact on tourism

The Great Barrier Reef is a major tourist destination, and its decline would have a significant impact on the tourism industry in Australia. In 2015, the reef generated $6 billion in tourism revenue, and it is estimated that over 2 million people visit the reef each year. If the reef is not cared for, the number of tourists visiting the reef would likely decline, leading to job losses and economic hardship.

3. Impact on fishing

The Great Barrier Reef is also an important fishing ground, and its decline would have a significant impact on the fishing industry in Australia. In 2015, the reef generated $1.2 billion in fishing revenue, and it is estimated that over 20,000 people are employed in the fishing industry in Australia. If the reef is not cared for, the amount of fish caught in the reef would likely decline, leading to job losses and economic hardship.

4. Impact on coastal protection

The Great Barrier Reef also provides important coastal protection, and its decline would make coastal communities in Australia more vulnerable to storms and erosion. In 2011, the reef helped to protect coastal communities from Cyclone Yasi, which caused an estimated $1 billion in damage. If the reef is not cared for, the cost of protecting coastal communities from storms would likely increase.

5. Impact on carbon sequestration

The Great Barrier Reef also plays an important role in carbon sequestration, and its decline would release large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. In 2015, the reef sequestered an estimated 400 million tons of carbon dioxide. If the reef is not cared for, the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere would likely increase, contributing to climate change.