How is the Great Barrier Reef being affected by tourism?

Recreational activities can harm coral reefs through: Breakage of coral colonies and tissue damage from direct contact such as walking, touching, kicking, standing, or gear contact. Breakage or overturning of coral colonies and tissue damage from boat anchors.

What is the biggest problem facing the Great Barrier Reef today?

Climate change is the greatest threat to the Great Barrier Reef, threatening its very existence.

Why has tourism decreased in the Great Barrier Reef?

“Further coral bleaching may lead to a significant decline in international tourism, with resultant economic impacts.” Tony Fontes, a Whitsundays-based dive operator, said there was “no doubt” the drop in tourist numbers had been caused by climate change and the resultant coral bleaching.

What problems is the Great Barrier Reef facing?

The Reef is highly vulnerable. In the past three decades, it has lost half its coral cover, pollution has caused deadly starfish outbreaks, and global warming has produced horrific coral bleaching. Coastal development also looms as a major threat.

What are the threats to the Great Barrier Reef?

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA), the government agency that manages the reef, takes a similar view on the threats. In its 2014 Outlook Report, it identified a number of key risks affecting the reef, the most serious of which is climate change.

How many people visit the Great Barrier Reef each year?

Tourism is one of the major industries in the Great Barrier Reef region. Approximately two million people visit the Great Barrier Reef each year. According to the WWF, tourism of the area contributes $5.4 billion a year to the Australian economy, and employs approximately 69,000 people.

How are we saving the Great Barrier Reef?

With more than 100 Reef-saving projects underway right now, we are the action station for the Reef, bringing together people and science to save our Reef and its marine life. Our Reef is an irreplaceable ecosystem facing a growing combination of threats, but there is hope and, together, we’re already making an impact.

Is there a tax on tourism in the Great Barrier Reef?

Ros Kelly proposed a 1% tax on tourism activities in the GBR in 1991, but this was criticised by Queensland’s premier, Wayne Goss. All licensed tourism operations in the Marine Park must pay the Environmental Management Charge (EMC), introduced in 1993, which provided 18% of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s budget in 2009–2010.