Protect your barrier reefs!
Australia's Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world. Hundreds of animal species, including the delightful clown fish, call it home. The reef is also critical to the survival of many sea turtles and birds who go their to breed or nest.
So it's a no brainer that this rich natural treasure should be protected. But that didn't stop Australia from approving liquified natural gas (LNG) mining projects right in the reef's World Heritage Area. Spurred by reports that Australia's federal government failed to disclose the LNG projects, a UNESCO team recently investigated.
But that's all UNESCO or the United Nations can do: investigate. UNESCO can and will make recommendations on how to preserve the reef and all its uses--which include a billion dollar tourism industry. However, it will be up to the Australian federal government and local authorities in Queensland to take action on UNESCO's recommendations. Tell Australians to step up to the plate and protect their reef!
We the undersigned cherish the Great Barrier Reef's natural riches and we think you should too. The reef is not your personal property to exploit for profit or quick energy dividends. It belongs to everyone in the world, and you are its steward. You need to take seriously and act upon the recommendations UNESCO will make following its recent inspection of the reef. Please protect the reef and all the many wild animals that breed, nest, and make their home there.
