It's too early to start writing an obituary for coral reefs.
As dire as their fate may seem now, science is changing what we know about coral reefs and how we might save them; about their roles within the broader ocean environment; and about their tremendous benefits to human communities and their economies. In fact, the complexity and interdependence of these systems, and our reliance on them, may be the key to reefs' preservation.
Our Perspective
It's too early to start writing an obituary for coral reefs. As dire as their fate may seem now, science is changing what we know about coral reefs and how we might save them; about their roles within the broader ocean environment; and about their tremendous benefits to human communities and their economies. In fact, the complexity and interdependence of these systems, and our reliance on them, may be the key to reefs' preservation.
This is key to our work at The Nature Conservancy—we are finding the support we need from our partners and allies in the communities, businesses and institutions whose fates are intertwined with those of coral reefs. And it is in these places, at the intersections of conservation and business, finance and science, high politics and local communities, that we will find solutions.
Read the full perspective below.
Blog
It's Not Too Late to Save Coral Reefs
Coral reefs are imperiled worldwide, but engaging new sectors in conservation could help us save these vital ecosystems.
Scroll to explore our stories of the local communities and unlikely alliances that are working together to protect coral reefs.
(best viewed on desktop)
Resources
-
Atlas of Ocean Wealth
PDF
This Atlas represents the largest collection to date of the economic, social and cultural values of coastal and marine habitats globally. More information
DOWNLOAD -
Infographic: The Value of Coral Reefs
Infographic
Coral reefs have a value of $9.9 trillion USD globally and are relied upon by at least 500 million people.
DOWNLOAD -
Infographic: Insuring Nature
Infographic
The Nature Conservancy is working with its partners to design and test innovative strategies to finance coral reef restoration and protection, which will in turn protect coastal economies and livelihoods. Descargar en español
DOWNLOAD
Related Insights
Feature
Insuring Nature to Ensure a Resilient Future
A new partnership in Hawai'i has implemented the United States' first-ever insurance policy on a coral reef.
Blog
The Caribbean Needs Tourism, and Tourism Needs Healthy Coral Reefs
AI and social media are helping quantify the economic value of coral reefs—and that value provides further incentive for their conservation.
Feature
From Constellation to Coral Reefs
Taking to the sky—even outer space—with revolutionary technologies to protect habitats beneath the sea.
Feature
How Tourism Can Be Good for Coral Reefs
Data highlights opportunities for the tourism industry to support better conservation outcomes
Global Insights
Check out our latest thinking and real-world solutions to some of the most complex challenges facing people and the planet today.