A new study has revealed that the Great Barrier Reef has been severely damaged because of bleaching. It has been this way for two consecutive years.

A new aerial survey has revealed that most of Australia's Great Barrier Reef has been hit by bleaching. This is the second consecutive year that the reef has experienced severe coral bleaching.

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According to NBC News, there have been incidents of coral bleaching in the Great Barrier Reef in the past. However, this time, it has been going on for two consecutive years.

Coral bleaching occurs when there is a change of temperature. The heightened sea temperature may cause the corals to release tiny polysynthetic algae that can make the corals to turn white.

The survey conduced by the Australian Research Council's Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies indicated that the top third of the reef was damaged in 2016. A recent study that was completed last week showed that there has been more damage done to the Great Barrier Reef this year.

The Great Barrier Reef has been described as one of the world's natural wonders. However, in recent years, severe bleaching has been affecting this attraction. The corals can recover from bleaching if the temperature drops. It also will recover once the algae in the area will recolonize. However, this recovery may take up to 10 years.

Meanwhile, NPR reported that the damage needs to be reduced for these reefs to recover. The process may be long, but it is worth it. The urgent action to restore the coral reef may also prevent global warming.

Aside from the importance of the Great Barrier Reef to the environment, it also is important for Australia's economic assets. It has brought in $7bn every year to the Australian economy. The reef also supports the livelihood of 70,000 people in the area.