Reef could be listed 'in danger,' lawyers believe

The Great Barrier Reef meets at least five of eight criteria to be listed 'in danger' despite the World Heritage Committee indicating it won't do so yet.

A new report has found the Great Barrier Reef meets five of eight criteria to be listed in danger. (AAP)

The Great Barrier Reef could be listed "in danger" despite the World Heritage Committee indicating it would spare the natural wonder the detrimental title, lawyers believe.

A new report by US-based Earthjustice and Australian-based Environment Justice Australia found the reef clearly meets five of eight criteria to be listed in danger.

Its lawyer Ariane Wilkinson said a heritage site could be listed if at least one criteria was met, meaning the reef was still at risk of an "in danger" listing this year.