‘Most of it was dead’: scientists discover one of Great Barrier Reef’s worst coral bleaching events
GuardianJUN 2024
Study: Hottest Sea in 400 Years Threatens Great Barrier Reef
Above: The Great Barrier Reef from Above. Image copyright: Unsplash
The Spin
Narrative A
The scientific evidence strongly indicates that human-induced climate change is responsible for increased ocean temperatures, which threaten the world's largest reef. Australia must do more to reduce its emissions to battle climate change and protect its greatest natural asset.
Narrative B
While climate change could affect ocean temperatures, weather phenomena such as El Niño may also play a role. Chaotic weather patterns can reduce ocean cloud cover, which could lead to an increase in solar radiation and ocean warming. Further research is required to establish certainty.