Australia rejects U.N. warning to list Great Barrier Reef as "in danger"

The United Nations says the Great Barrier Reef has suffered such extensive damage that it should be listed as "in danger." The warning prompted an immediate rejection from the Australian government.  

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) committee warned Tuesday that "urgent" action is needed to combat the effects of climate change and preserve the remaining coral. The region has suffered three catastrophic mass coral bleaching events since 2015, caused by warming ocean temperatures.  The report found that there is "no possible doubt" that the Reef "is facing ascertained danger." It found the government has not met water quality and land management targets, among other factors.