Australian scientists call for stronger protection of coastal marine ecosystems

Hundreds of marine scientists have written to Australian Environment Minister Murray Watt, urging the government to strengthen protections for the country’s coastal ecosystems as a once‑in‑a‑decade review of marine parks begins. The letter, signed by more than 270 experts from 84 research institutes, calls for a reassessment of the current network of protected areas, which the scientists say largely covers remote waters while leaving many unique and distinct coastal habitats vulnerable.

Critics argue that the bulk of Australia’s highly protected marine parks are situated in distant, less economically valuable regions, leaving the more biologically diverse and commercially important coastal zones largely unprotected. The scientists’ appeal highlights concerns that the existing framework may fail to safeguard the ecological integrity of these ecosystems, which support a wide array of marine life and local fisheries.

The review, which is expected to shape national marine policy for the next decade, will consider the experts’ recommendations. Their collective voice underscores the urgency of expanding protection to include the coastal waters that are both ecologically critical and central to Australia’s environmental and economic interests.