Ecosystem health of the Great Barrier Reef: Time for effective management action based on evidence

摘要: Abstract The Great Barrier Reef (GBR) is a World Heritage site off the north-eastern coast of Australia. GBR worth A$ 15–20 billion/year to Australian economy and provides approximately 64,000 full time jobs. Many species ecosystems are in poor condition continue decline. principal causes decline catchment pollutant runoff associated with agricultural urban land uses, climate change impacts effects fishing. important region not included inside boundaries Area. current management regime for clearly inadequate prevent further We propose refocus on “Greater GBR” (containing only major GBR, but also its catchment) set actions halt GBR. Proposed include: (1) Strengthen areas Greater where good condition, Torres Strait, northern Cape York Hervey Bay being systems highest integrity; (2) Investigate methods cross-boundary achieve simultaneous cost-effective terrestrial, freshwater marine ecosystem protection GBR; (3) Develop detailed, comprehensive, costed water quality plan (4) Use Marine Park Act Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation regulate activities that lead damage conjunction relevant Queensland legislation; (5) Fund coastal required level solve pollution issues by 2025, before become overwhelming; (6) Continue enforcement zoning plan; (7) Australia show commitment protecting through greenhouse gas emissions control, at scale 2025.