Australia's best-known maritime asset, the Great Barrier Reef, is under unprecedented threat. The
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority said aerial surveys of two-thirds of the reef had confirmed widespread bleaching.
Coral bleaching occurs when higher than average ocean temperatures cause the coral to experience heat stress, causing the coral to secrete algae that provide many nutrients and color.
The events that led to bleaching occurred long before summer in Australia.
Scientists say these bleaching events follow a global trend, which is being driven by rising sea surface temperatures due to climate change.
An educational project has been fostered that aims to turn tourists into supporters of the reef.
