Managing the Great Barrier Reef relies on good knowledge and information.

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) uses the best available research, scientific data and information to underpin the management of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

This information is collected by a large number of experts, researchers and organisations, and covers hundreds of topics from the detailed biology and ecology of particular animals and plants, to the types of interactions and experiences people have with the Reef, and the economic benefits the Reef brings to our community.

The GBRMPA uses scientific information in many ways, including:

• Measuring impacts to the Reef (including cumulative impacts)
• Identifying emerging risks to the Reef
• Defining objectives (including targets)
• Setting triggers for management intervention
• Developing policy and management strategies and assessing performance
• Providing expert advice
• Making decisions (for example permits and environmental impact assessments)
• Adaptive management
• Raising awareness
• State of the environment reporting
• Developing community partnerships based on shared understanding
• Preparing the Outlook Report.