PresentationGreat Barrier Reef and Climate Change
Find out about the key sustainability theme of CLIMATE CHANGE.
Great Barrier Reef and Climate Change
What do you think has happened in these photos?
What’s Happening?
Temperatures are rising on Earth, this affects our oceans.
This is mainly caused by an increase of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.
Greenhouse gases are gases in the earth’s atmosphere that trap heat!
Human activity plays a large part in the problem.
Burning fossil fuels traps heat in our atmosphere and this contributes to climate change.
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the richest natural ecosystems in the world.
Climate change is the biggest threat to coral reefs around the world.
Coral Bleaching
When temperatures change in the ocean, corals suffer stress and get rid of tiny algae that live inside their tissues.
This exposes their white skeletons.
The coral isn't dead but really at risk of disease and even hunger.
Coral can recover but only if ocean temperatures return to normal.
Ocean Acidification
The ocean is absorbing more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, this makes the ocean unbalanced and more acidic.
Creatures in the ocean are very sensitive to changes in their habitat, even subtle changes.
Weather Changes
Climate change is causing more and more severe storms!
Areas like the Great Barrier Reef are exposed to these events.
Storms can cause lots of damage to coral reefs.
Habitat Changes
As ocean temperatures rise, many marine creatures move from their habitats to colder habitats.
This changes whole ecosystems!
What is being done?
Reducing Greenhouse Gases
Changing our daily habits to reduce carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
This is so important in protecting our Earth’s future.
Strengthening Ecosystems
Planting more mangroves, meadows and wetlands will help to absorb carbon dioxide!
This helps coral reefs!
Reef Restoration
This involves taking cuttings from reefs that have survived the bleaching process as they are more resilient.
This is like taking cuttings from plants to grow new plants! From the coral cuttings thousands of new stronger coral can grow.
News Reporter!
Get into small groups and report about climate change in the Great Barrier Reef! Look at the information you have learned and your research. Video your reports!
You will need: A reporter, guest speakers (climate experts), a headline, a main story, an eye witness, a shock, a scientist.
Research Challenge
• Can you find out more about climate change in the Great Barrier Reef?
• How will you present your learning?
• Can you share what you found out with another class?
Global Goals
There are 17 things to do on the Global Goals list!
Earth Cubs work with planet saving partners to work towards the Global Goals!
How can you help the coral reefs?
Be a Planet Saver!
Think about 1 thing you could do to help.
• Hold a Fundraising event in school
• Donate to a COOL charity like Reef Restoration Foundation who makes a difference by restoring coral reefs!
• Teach family and friends about climate change in the Great Barrier Reef
The End!
