84% of the coral reefs hit by worst bleaching event on record
a year ago
- #climate-change
- #coral-reefs
- #marine-conservation
- 84% of the world’s coral reefs are affected by the worst bleaching event on record.
- This is the fourth global bleaching event since 1998, surpassing the 2014-17 event that impacted two-thirds of reefs.
- The bleaching is caused by warming oceans, with 2023 being the hottest year on record.
- Coral reefs are vital for biodiversity, supporting 25% of marine species, and are crucial for seafood production, tourism, and coastal protection.
- Prolonged warmth causes corals to expel the algae they rely on for food, leading to bleaching and increased risk of death.
- Efforts to conserve and restore coral include propagation in labs and rescuing endangered corals.
- Scientists emphasize the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to address the root cause of coral reef degradation.
- Current government policies are criticized for exacerbating the crisis by promoting fossil fuels and rolling back clean energy programs.