Reef ‘not out of woods’

THE Great Barrier Reef isn’t “out of the woods” despite UNESCO’s decision to leave it off its “in danger” list, one of Australia’s peak climate change bodies says.

Climate Council scientist Will Steffen says the outcome doesn’t change the fact science shows the ecosystem is in danger and has little chance of surviving unless the Federal Government changes its policies.

“The Federal Government must focus on protecting the reef, instead of labels and listings,” Professer Steffen said in a statement yesterday.

UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee endorsed the Federal and Queensland governments’ Reef 2050 Plan at its annual meeting in Poland on Wednesday.

Federal Environment Minister Josh Frydenberg said it was a “big win for Australia”.