Great Barrier Reef ontloopt voorlopig UNESCO-lijst van bedreigd erfgoed

©NEOM via Unsplash

For now, the Great Barrier Reef will not be added to UNESCO’s list of endangered World Heritage sites. In a draft decision, the World Heritage Committee commends Australia’s efforts to protect the reef, but at the same time warns that coral bleaching is placing increasing pressure on the ecosystem’s resilience.

The decision is not yet final; the committee will formally review it within a few weeks. In the meantime, UNESCO is asking Australia to report on water quality by December 2028 at the latest, followed by a new conservation report in 2029. The organization also wants to receive a full assessment of the most recent bleaching event as soon as possible. According to the draft, the reef’s coral populations have declined sharply following the massive bleaching events of 2024 and 2025. UNESCO expresses “extreme concern” and states that while the reef is showing resilience, its ability to withstand and recover from such extreme events is steadily declining.

Australian response

The Australian government reacted with relief to the preliminary decision. Assistant Minister for Tourism Nita Green said that the draft decision recognizes Australia’s ongoing efforts to protect and manage the reef, but emphasized that much work remains to be done. The Queensland government also highlighted record investments in the reef and the dedication of scientists, farmers, and local governments. For Australia, the stakes are high. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the country’s biggest tourist attractions and, according to local authorities, contributes billions to the economy. The reef stretches along the coast of Queensland and is considered one of the most important and vulnerable coral systems in the world.

Climate pressure

UNESCO calls Australia’s net-zero plan a step in the right direction but believes even more ambitious climate goals are needed to limit further warming. Since 2016, the reef has experienced large-scale bleaching events on multiple occasions, caused by warmer seawater temperatures. Upcoming reports should clarify whether the protective measures are sufficient to sustain the reef in the long term.

©NEOM via Unsplash - illustrative image of the Great Barrier Reef