Coral reefs in danger: facts and solutions

Coral reefs are suffering, and every diver who sees them carries a responsibility to tell the world the truth.

The main threats to reefs

Rising temperatures
Marine heatwaves cause coral bleaching, in which coral expels the vital colored algae that feed it. If bleaching continues for weeks, the coral dies.

Ocean acidification
Excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere dissolves in the sea and acidifies the water, which weakens coral’s calcareous structures.

Destructive fishing
Trawl nets that smash everything in their path, and dynamite fishing that completely destroys coral.

What a diver can do

Never touch
Even a light touch weakens coral and allows bacteria to harm it. Years of growth are destroyed by a touch.

Report damage
If you see illegal fishing or pollution, report it to the competent authorities immediately and record what you see if possible.

Spread awareness
Share your experience and photos with people and tell them what you see underwater so they understand what we are losing.

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Coral reefs are not a tourist view. They are a living system that feeds hundreds of millions of people.