Word on the Reef

Author: Tanya Murphy

Diving into marine science adventures on the Great Barrier Reef and beyond!
Be a guest on this podcast

Language: en-au

Genres: Life Sciences, Nature, Science

Contact email: Get it

Feed URL: Get it

iTunes ID: Get it

Get all podcast data

Listen Now...

S2 E35: Muddying the Waters: Deforestation and the Water Pollution Crisis on the Great Barrier Reef
Episode 35
Friday, 21 November, 2025

Did you know Australia has one of the highest deforestation rates in the developed world? About 20% of Queensland's vegetation has been bulldozed since colonisation -- one million hectares in the last three years alone -- mainly for cattle farming. What impact is this having on the Great Barrier Reef, and what can we do to fix it? To find out, this week we're chatting with Dr Maximilian Hirschfeld, Water Quality Campaign Manager at the Australian Marine Conservation Society.Take Action:Sign a Submission to strengthen Australia's nature laws to prevent deforestation and other threats to our oceansSign the Petition asking the Australian Government for a Stronger Water Pollution Reduction PlanSupport the showHelp Keep Word on the Reef Afloat!Please take 2 minutes to fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey to help us apply for funding for the show!PROTECT THE REEF - Sign these Petitions Now! Australian Marine Conservation Society: Australia, it's time to lead on Climate Action! Divers for Climate: Sign the 'I'm a Diver for Climate' National Statement Australian Conservation Foundation: No New Coal and Gas! Queensland Conservation Council: Take Strong Climate Action and Build a Positive Renewable Future! Our Islands Our Home: Protect the Torres Strait Islands from Climate Change Greenpeace: Save the Great Barrier Reef! WWF Australia: Protect Nature Rising Tide: ...