Shadecloths could protect reef: scientist

SBS -

A leading climate change scientist is calling for investigations into novel ways, such as giant shadecloths, to protect and save the Great Barrier Reef.

Australia needs to investigate novel ways of protecting the Great Barrier Reef, such as giant shadecloths, a leading climate change scientist says.

Ove Hoegh-Guldberg of the University of Queensland's Global Change Institute, says the time for saving the reef through global action on climate change may be running out.

In a paper published in the journal Nature Climate Change on Monday, Professor Hoegh-Guldberg calls for studies into solutions for damage done to the area.

Some of the professor's more novel ideas include using very large shadecloths to protect coral from heat stress, using low-voltage electric currents to stimulate coral growth, and genetic engineering to help marine life cope.

Also canvassed is a plan to add base minerals to the waters around the reef to help offset higher levels of acidity, which harm the coral.

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