Position Statement: Climate Change

Abstract

Climate change is the greatest threat to the world’s coral reefs. Most coral reefs have already declined and are facing irreversible change. The action we take today will determine the Great Barrier Reef we know tomorrow. Every increment of global warming is compromising the Reef’s unique biodiversity, significant cultural heritage, social benefits, and the ecosystem services it provides. Urgent global action is critical to deliver on international commitments to limit temperatures to 1.5˚C of warming, or as close as possible. This will deliver the best possible future for the Great Barrier Reef and the livelihoods that depend on it