North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) is keen to back scientific research and actions which improve the future of the Great Barrier Reef.
NQBP said that the focus on the debate about dredging has taken necessary focus and investment away from the real issues impacting the Great Barrier Reef and action to preserve the Reef needs to replace debate.
“ Based on our scientific studies and the studies of other scientists, we know that our ports and the associated dredging have posed little risk to the Great Barrier Reef, but we are also acutely aware that the Great Barrier Reef is under threat ,” Brad Fish, CEO of North Queensland Bulk Ports said.
“ An article by Dr Alison Jones in The Conversation really resonated with us – particularly the statement that groups are spending money on the debate and not enough is being done to improve the resilience of the Great Barrier Reef.
“While requirements within conditions of the dredging approvals are important, meeting these will not necessarily address the real issues affecting the Great Barrier Reef. More can be done and we would like to be part of this,” Mr Fish said.
NQBP runs an EcoPorts program which includes seagrass monitoring of the surrounding port environments, coral and benthic infauna assessments, beach surveys, water quality monitoring and sediment characterisation.
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Press Release, March 21, 2014