Written by Cove Johnson Rabidoux
Coral reefs, often referred to as the rainforests of the sea, are one of the most valuable habitats on Earth. But sadly, these diverse habits are facing immediate threats from human-caused pollution. From plastic pollution to industrial waste to oil spills, human activities are wreaking coral reefs worldwide. Ultimately, pollution is threatening not only their survival but also all the species that depend on them.
One of the most significant pollutants to coral reefs are chemicals from agricultural runoff, industrial activities, and sewage outflows. These pollutants, such as fertilizers, pesticides, heavy metals, and oil, can poison coral reefs, disrupting their delicate balance and leading to widespread coral bleaching. Eventually, coral bleaching can lead to the deaths of many coral reefs.
Plastic pollution also poses another grave threat to coral reefs. Millions of tons of plastic/waste enter the ocean each year, where it can entangle and suffocate sea life that lives in coral reefs. Plus, according to NPR plastic debris is “smothering 92% of coral reefs.” But plastic doesn’t just smother coral reefs, it can also lead to more harmful diseases for coral reefs. Plastic waste can act as a hotspot for pathogens, introducing diseases that can devastate coral populations.
In general, the impacts of pollution on coral reefs are severe with coral bleaching being the biggest. Coral bleaching is a phenomenon that is triggered by environmental stressors such as rising water temperatures and pollution. Coral bleaching is dangerous because it occurs when corals expel the algae living in their tissues, turning them white and leaving them vulnerable to disease and death. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), coral bleaching events have become increasingly frequent and severe in recent decades, posing a significant threat to the health and resilience of coral reef ecosystems worldwide.
Coral bleaching is detrimental because coral reefs play a crucial role in providing homes for marine animals and protecting coastal communities from storms and erosion. Healthy reefs act as natural barriers, “dissipating wave energy and reducing the impact of coastal hazards.” Therefore, the loss of coral reefs can have horrible effects on coastal towns, as it leaves coastal communities even more vulnerable to hurricanes, typhoons, and tsunamis.
Overall, addressing the threat of pollution to coral reefs requires global actions. Efforts to reduce oil runoff and improve waste management practices are just two essential components to protecting these ecosystems. Additionally, initiatives to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable fishing practices can also help coral reefs recover. But it doesn’t just fall on world leaders and lawmakers to support coral reefs, people all around the world can take actions to protect coral reefs. So, if you are interested in creating lasting change that benefits coral reefs, consider:
Wearing Reef-Safe Sunscreen When Diving
Conserving Water
Raising Awareness
Taking Part in Beach-Cleanups
Recycling
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