Australia takes measures to preserve the Coral Sea

According to news sources, Australia is leading the rest of the world in its attempts to protect the oceans, after it recently announced to create the world’s largest marine reserve. The reserve will be in the Coral Sea—home to coral reefs, sharks, tuna, and countless other creatures. It would be 989,842 square km. Within the reserve, oil and gas exploration would be illegal, and there would be strict restrictions on fishing.

Environmentalists have applauded the Australian government’s efforts and call for even further actions; however, the seafood industry claims that the new fishing restrictions would be harmful to their business. No decisions will be finalized for 90 days, while discussions continue.

Other current issues impacting the world’s oceans include the dwindling shark and whale population , the exploding jellyfish population, and plastic pollution.

Things a little closer to home you can do to care for the oceans, as well as your health, include choosing sustainable seafood and avoiding imported shrimp, which can contain toxic substances.