Australian scientists have confirmed a sixth mass coral bleaching event on the Great Barrier Reef since 2016, raising alarms about the accelerating impacts of climate change on one of Earth's most biodiverse ecosystems. The event occurred during the 2024-25 summer, with prolonged heat stress devastating northern regions of the 2,300-km reef system.
A joint report by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, Australian Institute of Marine Science, and Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization revealed this marks the first time consecutive annual bleaching has been recorded. Scientists emphasized that recovery windows between heatwaves are shrinking, leaving less time for coral regeneration.
Environmental economists warn the bleaching poses risks to Australia's $6 billion reef tourism industry and adjacent fisheries. Climate researchers highlight the event as evidence of global warming trends affecting marine ecosystems worldwide. UNESCO's World Heritage Committee continues monitoring the reef's status amid calls for enhanced conservation measures.
The findings arrive as Asia-Pacific nations intensify climate cooperation efforts, with coral reef protection emerging as a priority for coastal economies. Marine biologists stress that reducing greenhouse gas emissions remains critical to preserving reef ecosystems for future generations.
