Australia created the largest marine park on the planet

Australia is planning to build the world's largest marine park system, and will limit fishing scope and limit oil exploration stations off the coast.

According to Australian officials, the area will have an area of ​​about 3.1 million square kilometers and account for more than a third of the country's sea surface area. The statement, after years of planning and discussion, will be officially launched next week at the Rio + 20 United Nations Summit on Sustainable Development in Brazil, with the participation of the Prime Minister. Australia Julia Gillard and Environment Minister Tony Burke.

"It is time for the world to pay attention to protecting the ocean," AFP quoted Australia Burke Environment Minister. "And Australia will lead this trend," he said.

A sea lion is playing in the South Australian marine park.

"The new marine park system will help protect Australia's marine environment and maintain biodiversity in these areas."

Australian officials say the oceanographic park network will increase the number of preserved animals from 27 to 60, including some endangered species such as blue whales, sea turtles, gray sharks and sea ​​cow.

In addition, Australia will also set some limits for energy companies, to reduce the risk of environmental pollution. However, the Shell and Woodside Petroleum corporations have recently obtained exploration permits and continue to operate in waters off Western Australia.

At the same time, with the construction of marine parks, fishing operations will also be limited. Australian officials say the government will compensate fishermen and businesses doing business in this area.

"In the next few months, the government will consult with regulatory agencies and people working in the seafood industry to adjust, to support fishery activities," Burke said.

In response to this idea, the Australian Conservation Fund, on the one hand welcomed the initiative, called it " historical practice" , on the other hand expressed concern that some areas are still under heavy influence. environmental pollution.

"Although the government has banned oil exploration in the Coral Sea, the northeastern region is still at risk of environmental threats," said Don Henry, executive director of the Fund. .

"We will continue to work with governments, organizations and stakeholders to strengthen protection for areas that have not received adequate attention , " he added.

As expected, the world's largest marine park system will be deployed by the Australian government later this year.