Half of all World Heritage sites are at risk, says new reoprt

Many World Heritage sites could be facing some serious problems, warns a new report from the World Wildlife Fund, (WWF).

The organisation states that "nearly half of all natural World Heritage sites are threatened by harmful industrial activities."

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In fact, it claims that around 114 of 229 designated places are being encroached upon for this reason, including concessions for oil and gas.

In addition to the potential environmental damage, the report also emphasises the human consequences. It estimates that more than 11 million people who rely on these World Heritage sites for their basic needs like food and shelter, stating that industrial activities could ultimately hurt numerous populations.

The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, for example, has become vulnerable to coastal construction and oil drilling, which places the welfare of an estimated 190,000 locals 'at risk.'

As such, WWF is advocating strong government and corporate action to better protect these areas.

Just recently it was reported that the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park has been suffering due to unexpectedly weather.

The warmer climate has led to massive bleaching events with the distinctive coral losing its colour, and the Australian government has since raised the emergency to the highest tier.