2022 Scientific Consensus Statement

IN BRIEF:

The scientific consensus statement provides a comprehensive overview of the impacts of land-based pollutants on the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem. The statement was developed by over 200 experts, with a rigorous process to minimise bias and ensure transparency. Key findings include:

• Pollutant loads (fine sediments, nitrogen, pesticides) have increased significantly since pre-European settlement, by 1.4-5 times for sediments and 1.5-3 times for nitrogen.
• Poor water quality continues to impact inshore ecosystems, with climate change being the greatest overall threat to the Reef.
• Cost-effective land management practices are known, but need to be implemented at scale, particularly in hotspot areas.
• Monitoring programs are strong but have some gaps, and more research is needed on the co-benefits and efficiency of management actions.