ABOUT CORAL REEFS

Coral reefs are among the most diverse and valuable ecosystems on Earth. They are home to over 25% of all marine species, despite covering only about 0.1% of the world's ocean surface. Coral reefs not only provide shelter for an incredible variety of marine life, but they also play a vital role in the global ecosystem. They protect coastal areas from erosion and storms, contribute to carbon sequestration, and support the livelihoods of millions of people dependent on fishing and tourism.

​

However, these unique habitats are under threat. Already, 50% of the world’s coral reefs have been lost, and without immediate action, it’s predicted that only 10% of coral reefs will remain by 2050. Climate change is the greatest threat: rising sea temperatures cause coral bleaching, in which corals expel the symbiotic algae that provide them with energy and color. If the bleaching persists for too long, the corals die, leading to devastating consequences for marine biodiversity.

​

In addition to climate change, coral reefs are severely endangered by human activities such as overfishing, destructive fishing practices, coastal erosion, pollution from plastic waste and chemicals, and the extraction of sand and coral for construction projects. These threats directly impact the health of reefs and threaten the livelihoods of many coastal communities.