June 14, 2012 – Australia plans to create the world’s largest network of marine reserves, encompassing a 3.1 million square kilometer patchwork of coastal waters, the government announced Thursday. The move is aimed at balancing protection for the country’s delicate reefs and marine life, which are facing growing environmental pressures, with the demands of its booming resource-driven economy.
Under the plan unveiled by Tony Burke, the minister for sustainability, environment, water, population and communities, fishing and oil and gas exploration would be restricted in nearly one-third of Australia’s territorial waters, an area of 1.2 million square miles that includes the pristine Coral Sea off the country’s northeastern coast and the iconic Great Barrier Reef. The health of that World Heritage-listed site has become a major concern, as scientists have warned that climate change and population pressures pose threats to its long-term survival.
“The maps I have released today are most comprehensive network of marine protected areas in the world and represent the largest addition to the conservation estate in Australia’s history,” Mr. Burke said in a statement. “This new network of marine reserves will help ensure that Australia’s diverse marine environment, and the life it supports, remain healthy, productive and resilient for future generations.”
The number of marine reserves would rise to 60 from the current 27, which cover 800,000 square kilometers of protected waters. The proposal is expected to be approved by Parliament and take effect late this year. Mr. Burke said that the government expects to pay about 100 million Australian dollars, or $99.3 million, to the fishing industry in compensation for the new restrictions.
Read the full story at the New York Times.