1. Powerpoint Presentation by Jennifer Ayoub
What are the environmental effects
of overfishing in the Great Barrier
Reef?
2. Summary of the Project
The Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s most
notable wonders. Being the largest living structure
on the planet, it has within its vast expanse a unique
range of ecological communities, habitats and
species (Facts about the Great Barrier Reef, 2011).
Over the past few decades, the Great Barrier Reef
has been faced with numerous threats including
pollution, coral bleaching, climate change and
overfishing.
3. Summary of the Project
While pollution, climate change and coral
bleaching are areas many of us have some
knowledge of, overfishing is a relatively new
concept, becoming increasingly popular amongst
fisherman. “The fishing industry is second only to
tourism in terms of income generation related
directly to the Great Barrier Reef, bringing in an
annual profit over $1 billion to Australia” (Great
Barrier Reef threats, n.d.).
4. Key Findings and Main Conclusion
Overfishing is unsustainable and has
serious consequences for our marine
wildlife. Although it may be considered
to be a profitable way of gathering
fish, overfishing has the ability to “not
only affect the balance of life in the
oceans, but also the social and
economic well-being of the coastal
communities who depend on fish for
their way of life” (Overfishing:
Threats, 2014).
5. Key Findings and Main Conclusion
Based on the research, it is evident that
overfishing is a global threat which needs to be addressed
sooner rather than later. If overfishing is to continue not
just in the Great Barrier Reef, but also throughout the
world, the fish and coral population will surely diminish
leaving very little for future generations.
6. Call to Action
There are a number of ways people can
become involved to ensure that our
Great Barrier Reef remains in tact.
These guidelines come from the
Overfishing – A Global Disaster
Website.
• Be informed about overfishing as being a
global issue.
• If you are a fish eater, be aware of
what you are eating, where it has come
from and how it has been caught.
• If you fish for sport, adhere by the
guidelines and be aware of the fish size
limits.
7. Reflection
To those students who intend on taking
IATW next year, my advice would
be to:
a) Keep an open mind
b) Learn to broaden your horizons
c) Be involved, participate in all
learning and discussions and above
all
d) Have fun with the subject. It has
so much to offer if you’re willing to
give it a chance!
8. References
Facts about the Great Barrier Reef. (2011). Australian Government: Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
Authority. Retrieved on 7th August, 2014 from http://www.gbrmpa.gov.au/about-the-reef/facts-
about-the-great-barrier-reef
Great Barrier Reef Threats (n.d.). The Great Barrier Reef. Retrieved on 7th August, 2014 from
http://www.greatbarrierreef.com.au/information/great-barrier-reef-threats/
Overfishing: Threats. (2014). World Wildlife Organisation. Retrieved on 4th August, 2014 from
http://www.worldwildlife.org/threats/overfishing
