Untouched marine habitats and ‘pristine’ oceans across the globe have shrunk to 13%, according to a recent study from the University of Queensland.

Shipping, pollution and overfishing are the main factors affecting the shrinking rate, with scientists warning untouched habitats may be completely vanished within half a century.

UQ researcher Kendall Jones has warned climate change and improved shipping technology reaching more of the planet will put the most remote areas at risk.