The Government Has Launched a People-Powered Plan to Help Save the Great Barrier Reef
A $2 million challenge to find ways to help protect and rejuvenate the world's largest coral reef system.
The Australian and Queensland governments have put the call out for some good old-fashioned brain power, in an effort to help save the world's largest living organism.
The Great Barrier Reef has copped it pretty hard of late, suffering coral bleaching events in both 2016 and 2017, and more recently sporting a nasty outbreak of crown-of-thorns starfish. And experts warn things will only get worse for the reef if climate change issues are ignored and rising ocean temperatures cause irreversible damage of their own.
As SBS reports, the problems have inspired the two governments to launch a $2 million challenge, which will tap into local minds to find ways to protect and restore the country's great natural wonder.
Federal Environment Minister Josh Frydenberg described the initiative as "an open invitation to our greatest scientific minds, industry and business leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs to develop innovative solutions which will protect corals and encourage the recovery of damaged reefs."
Applications can focus on any aspect of the Great Barrier Reef's restoration, including boosting coral regeneration rates and protecting coral from its main physical stressors.
Applications are open now through the Advance Queensland Small Business Innovation Research initiative. Check out all the info on their website.
Via sbs.com.au
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