The Great Barrier Reef is undergoing its fifth mass bleaching event in eight years due to high water temperatures linked to climate change and El Niño.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has warned of a potential global coral die-off.

The Australian government has committed 726 million euros to reef protection efforts amid significant economic interests tied to the reef's tourism.

Critics have targeted Australia for its substantial fossil fuel exports and perceived inadequate climate action.

Australia is taking steps to avoid the Great Barrier Reef being classified as 'threatened' by UNESCO, with conservation results pending review at the Welterbe-Komitee meeting in July.

Long-term coral protection hinges on the rapid reduction of global greenhouse gas emissions.