Great Barrier Reef Records Sharpest Decline in Four Decades

Swift Summary

• The Great Barrier Reef has experienced its largest annual coral decline in 39 years,with losses following a major bleaching event in 2024.
• According to surveys conducted by the Australian Institute of marine Science (AIMS),northern regions saw coral cover decrease by 39.8%, central regions by 28.6%, and southern regions by 26.9%.
• bleaching occurs when corals expel algae due to elevated sea temperatures, leaving them vulnerable and often leading to death.
• The frequency of bleaching events is increasing,with notable occurrences in 1998,2002,and consecutive events in both 2016-17 and also the recent one in 2024.
• Aerial surveys indicate that up to half of surveyed reefs showed medium-to-high bleaching levels (10-60% coral cover affected).
• Researchers note that although some coral regions were previously thriving above long-term averages, frequent climate-induced disturbances could inhibit future recovery.
• Climate change-driven warming appears to be the primary threat; reducing greenhouse gas emissions is essential for reef survival.

read More: There is Still Time to Save the Coral Reefs

Indian Opinion Analysis

The reported sharp decline of the Great Barrier reef serves as an urgent reminder about global climate challenges-and India’s position within them. coral ecosystems such as Lakshadweep’s or Andaman & Nicobar Islands’ reefs similarly risk ecological vulnerability due to warming seas and human impacts. India’s coastline also supports millions reliant on marine biodiversity for livelihoods-making it critical for policymakers here not just to track international data but foster local stewardship through awareness campaigns or incentivizing adaptive practices.

Moreover, lessons from Australia’s reef monitoring efforts underline how systematic research can guide conservation strategies effectively over decades. As India advances its marine studies institutions or strengthens sustainable tourism approaches along fragile coastlines like Goa, replicating tools like manta tow surveys may elevate our natural resource management benchmarks.

Global cooperation remains vital-India must push steadfastly toward commitments established under frameworks like COP agreements while calibrating domestic green policies such as renewable energy expansion programs or coastal adaptation projects alongside international leaders combating climate fallout scenarios worldwide.