Shanmugam Ias Academy

Mar 07, 2022

Why in News?

A report published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) states that the Great Barrier Reef is in crisis.

Great Barrier Reef

It is the world’s most extensive and spectacular Coral Reef ecosystem.
The reef is located in the Coral Sea (North-East Coast), off the coast of Queensland, Australia.
It can be seen from outer space and is the world’s biggest single structure made by living organisms.
This reef structure is composed of and built by billions of tiny organisms, known as coral polyps.
These polyps have microscopic algae called zooxanthellae living within their tissues. The corals and algae have a mutualistic (symbiotic) relationship.
It is a part of world Heritage site.

Findings of the Report

Increase in the ocean temperature is resulting in coral bleaching.
The ocean warming and marine heatwaves will cause the loss and degradation of tropical shallow coral reefs, leading to “widespread destruction” of coral reef ecosystems.
It will lead to impact the employment opportunities.
It will reduce the revenue generation in the economy.
It will result in degradation of the speices.
It results in rising of sea levels.
Increase in ocean acidification.

Initiatives to Protect Corals

The Ministry of Environment and Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), India has included the studies on coral reefs under the Coastal Zone Studies (CZS).
In India, the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), with help from Gujarat’s forest department, is attempting a process to restore coral reefs using “biorock” or mineral accretion technology.
National Coastal Mission Programme, to protect and sustain coral reefs in the country.
Reducing the pollution limit.
Using eco – friendly methods.
Bringing up global initiatives to protect the corals.

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