What is Australia's goal for ocean protection?

Australia aims to protect 30% of its ocean estate, which involves adding an extra 523,980 square kilometers under high protection.

When will the marine park management plans be completed?

Reviews for the Coral Sea and Temperate East marine park networks are targeted for completion by the end of 2027, with other parks due by June 2028.

Why is the review of marine parks considered important?

The review is crucial for potentially reversing past downgrades in marine protection and ensuring that a comprehensive range of habitats are safeguarded, especially in light of climate change.

Home / Environment / Australia Eyes 30% Ocean Protection

Australia Eyes 30% Ocean Protection

17 Mar

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Summary

Australia plans to protect 30% of its ocean estate.
An additional 523,980 sq km will gain high protection.
Reviews of marine park management plans are underway.

Australia has pledged to increase the area of its ocean estate under high protection to 30%, a move that will place an additional 523,980 square kilometers out of reach for extractive industries. This commitment aligns with a global agreement to protect 30% of the planet's oceans by 2030.

The federal environment minister, Murray Watt, has commenced a review of management plans for 44 national marine parks. This process aims to designate more areas as sanctuaries where activities like fishing and drilling are banned, while also considering economic and environmental interests.

This initiative is seen by conservationists as a chance to reverse previous decisions, particularly the downgrading of protections in vast areas like the Coral Sea marine park by the Abbott government in 2018. Reviews for the Coral Sea and Temperate East networks are expected to be completed by the end of 2027, with other parks by June 2028.

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