Data from the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shows that the global sea surface temperature has increased by about 0.13 degrees Celsius per decade over the last 100 years.
Since this study is based on the sea surface, it only includes the first few meters of the ocean’s surface. However, this change has been found to cause great distress to coral reefs worldwide.
These stresses have been making reefs expel the symbiotic algae living in their tissues, causing them to turn completely white. This process is known as coral bleaching.
In 2005, the U.S. lost half its coral reefs in the Caribbean — in one year! — due to a bleaching event.
But bleaching events aren’t only limited to warm water events. In January of 2010, ocean temperatures dropped over 12 degrees Fahrenheit in the Florida Keys.
What causes these temperature changes? There are many theories. And quite honestly, we can’t pinpoint any single reason. But we want to help. Because we know that coral reefs are critical to marine life.
How?
Coral reefs provide the following:
– Fisheries. Fish that live in coral reefs are a significant source of food for over a billion people worldwide. The NOAA estimates that fish living in coral reefs have an annual commercial value of over $100 million
– Protection. Healthy coral reefs protect coastlines from waves, currents, storms, and any other forms of erosion and property damage.
– Tourism/Recreation. As divers, we’re well aware of the beauty coral reefs bring. Diving near a thriving reef is one of the most memorable experiences imaginable.
– Diverse marine life. Many forms of marine life depend on what coral reefs have to offer. They provide a feeding and breeding ground for many forms of marine life.
– Medicines and vaccinations. Although this is fairly new, it is being discovered that marine ecosystems like coral reefs produce chemical compounds as a defense mechanism. These chemicals are being tested for many vaccinations for humans, which could be beneficial for the future of mankind… but only if we keep the oceans healthy.
The deterioration of coral reefs worldwide is something that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible.
Since 1995, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia — the largest reef in the world, stretching over 1,400 miles — has lost more than half of its coral to bleaching due to changes in water temperature.
We know that changing this will be bigger than any one organization or group. But we know we can help. And with every dollar donated to our cause, we will come one step closer to making a difference.
Thank you in advance to anyone willing to help, whether through donations, collaboration, or taking initiative on your own.