When thinking about cyclones, we often think about the detrimental effects it has on humans. Though these effects should be well mitigated for, there are other environmental concerns that need our attention. The Great Barrier Reef has lost more than half of its coral cover in the past 27 years due to storms, predatory starfish, and bleaching linked to climate change. Since 1985, 34 intense tropical cyclones have been responsible for about 48 percent of damage to the Australian gem. The loss of over half of initial cover is of great concern. Thousands of species rely on coral for habitat purposes; the damage not only signifies a loss in the natural environment, but a driving force in displacing the sea life that lived there.
So then, what mitigation measures are needed to be taken in order to preserve our coral reefs? Studies suggest mitigation of global warming and ocean acidification. Improving water quality is key to controlling starfish outbreaks, responsible for 42 percent of coral damage. Other problems that include agricultural run-off containing hazardous fertilizers must also be omitted in order to improve the natural waters. As Australian Institute of Marine Sciences (AIMS) chief John Gunn said, "We can't stop the storms, but perhaps we can stop the starfish."
I'm glad AIMS is coming up with innovative ways to preserve the coral reefs. Recovery is possible if we take mitigation measures seriously and watch what we are putting in our oceans. The article seems to take this issue from an engineering paradigm stand-point. Perhaps not to protect humans from cyclones, but towards the protection of Great Barrier Reef. Like Gunn mentioned, stopping the storms and bleaching are out of reach, but we can still focus on effective, short-term efforts that can help control starfish outbreaks.
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