Great Barrier Crisis

Australia's Great Barrier Reef is a natural wonder. Its an ecologist's dream. The site is home to a diverse group of colorful fish and plant species as well as vibrant reef formations. Unfortunately, toxins washing out to the sea are threatening this extremely unique ecosystem.

Sediment washing from local rivers is creating a clouding effect over the reef which blocks out sunlight necessary for life. The NASA and US National Oceanagraphic and Atmospheric Administration satellite photographs display a rate of sediment spreading that is higher than predicted.

What can Australians do? Some individual efforts that can have a large cumulative effect include reducing use of fertilizers or pesticides, fix oil or gas leaks in automobiles, object to construction in wetlands, and avoid dumping garbage into rivers. America and other nations face similar threats to their natural systems. Its important to make sure we reduce our toxic and chemical litter as much as possible so it doesn't get washed by rain into places where we drink, swim, fish, and boat.

Click here for more information on the Reef