Turning the Tide Newsletter – Summer 2024
Scientists Warn Mass Bleaching
Climate change is the greatest threat to the Great Barrier Reef.
The ocean is becoming more acidic and absorbing excessive amounts of heat due to burning coal, oil and gas.
Climate change is causing more frequent and severe marine heatwaves. Marine heatwaves are deadly for temperature-sensitive animals like corals. When corals get stressed they bleach.
Scientists have warned that more coral bleaching is likely on the Great Barrier Reef this summer due to the combination of human-caused ocean heating and an El Niño event.
About Coral Bleaching
When corals are stressed by heat, or excessive nutrients, they expel the colourful algae and turn white. Coral bleaching can lead to coral disease and mortality. Corals can recover but they need time and for conditions to return to normal.
Raise Climate Targets
Win! Queensland Premier Steven Miles announced the state will cut greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2035 – a significantly stronger target than the previous 30% reduction by 2030.
Cutting pollution will help tackle climate change. We must see more action to limit warming to 1.5°C, to protect the people and places we love, like the Great Barrier Reef.