Great Barrier Reef: Australia pledges A$1bn but draws renewed climate criticism

[Still Waters]

Australia will spend A$1bn (£520m; $700m) over nine years on improving the water quality and other aspects of the ailing Great Barrier Reef, its PM says.

Scientists have welcomed the money but warn it does not tackle the reef's overriding threat of climate change.

A climate laggard among rich nations, Australia is often criticised for not doing more to prevent coral bleaching caused by warmer seas.

PM Scott Morrison argued the new investment would have broad benefits.

It will fund projects that reduce erosion and pollutants entering the sea, and other conservation efforts - such as combating illegal fishing and coral-eating starfish.

"There are 64,000 jobs that depend on that reef," Mr Morrison said on Friday.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-australia-60164331