Future Reef information brochure

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world's most important natural assets. It is the largest natural feature on earth, stretching more than 2,300km along the northeast coast of Australia from the tip of Cape York to just north of Bundaberg. In addition to its environmental importance, the Reef's associated industries contribute A$5 billion per year to the Australian economy and employ over 60,000 people. 

On an international scale, the Great Barrier Reef is much more than a natural showpiece. It is the haven of many unanswered questions about ourplanet, making it a prime focus for scientific research. More importantly, it is the lifeblood of the marine environment of northeast Australia and the communities along its length. 

While little is known about the precise impact of climate change on the Great Barrier Reef, scientists do agree that coral reefs are being affected. With so much dependent on the Reef's survival, it is essential to invest in research that secures its environmental, cultural and economic value for the next generation. 

The Future Reef Partnership
The Great Barrier Reef Research Foundation and Rio Tinto Aluminium have formed the Future Reef partnership to support research-based initiatives to protect the Great Barrier Reef. 

The Foundation and its members believe climate change is the most critical issue affecting the longterm survival of the Reef. As a major aluminium producer, Rio Tinto Aluminium has an ongoing commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and develop a better understanding of the contribution aluminium makes to the environment throughout its lifecycle. The Future Reef partnership is the result of this shared interest in the critical issue of climate change. 

The Future Reef partnership is a unique example of industry and science working together on an area of mutual and national concern. Rio Tinto Aluminium has committed more than A$1 million over four years to two Reef research programmes that will be overseen by the Foundation.

For more information about the partnership, please click here.