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Great Barrier Reef under threat due to coal dust leak

February 10, 2017 4:25 PM |

Great Barrier Reef under threat due to coal dust leakThe iconic Great Barrier Reef continues to remain under threat as the risk of coal dust leak looms large over the region. While the environment minister believes that the recent coal dust leak is containable, worry remains in place as the number of the threats to the most beautiful underwater biomass in the world keep increasing.

The black coal dust which is being seen on the sea shores of Australia is a matter of concern for Environmentalists across the globe. Due to this, an investigation has begun on Hay Point, the coal point which exports several tons of coal around the year. Until now, it hasn’t been confirmed that the primal source of coal leak is Hay Point.

As per scientists, corals can be killed directly through coal dust. Not only this, sea life is also damaged. The Great Barrier Reef is at severe risk due to the burning of coal as well.

During the year 2013, the opening of another coal port at Abbot Point, which happens to be about three hours from Hay Point was strongly opposed by Environmentalists and Conversationalists. The more the coal spills, the higher the risk for the Great Barrier Reef.

As per predictions by the GreenPeace, by the year 2020, the amount of coal ships which will cross the Great Barrier Reef is expected to increase by five times. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia’s greatest heritage site currently falls under the danger list of UNESCO.

Image Credit: morningnewsusa.com






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