Protecting UNESCO Marine Heritage Sites

Question 1

What does ‘outstanding universal value’ entail

Answer 1

• Outstanding: Exceptional, unique area
• Universal: Importance to all
• Value: UNESCO uses the term ‘worth’

Question 2

Give an example of an area that has met the outstanding universal value

Answer 2

• Great Barrier Reef
• 30 species of whale and dolphin
• 1600 species of fish

Question 3

How does the Great Barrier Reef meet the outstanding universal value criteria?

Answer 3

• Outstanding unique beauty
• Indicates the health of oceans via bleaching and diversity
• Large tourist attraction
• Scientific and medicinal value

Question 4

How has the Great Barrier Reef achieved successful protection?

Answer 4

• UNESCO (World Heritage Site, 1981)
• Global media (Blue Planet)
• Australian government ($600m spent)
• Australian universities (Research conservation)
• Tourism ($5.5bn contributed can be reinvested)
• Great Barrier Reef Foundation (Raise money to protect heritage site)