Prince Charles gives speech at a meeting for for International Year of the Reef 2018

Coral reefs are vital to marine ecosystems and global balance, yet they face severe threats from human activities and environmental changes. Over the past three decades, 50% of tropical coral reefs have been lost due to global warming, coastal development, overfishing, pollution, and plastic waste. Recent widespread bleaching events further threaten their survival. The interval between bleaching events has decreased, reducing the time for reefs to recover. If current trends continue, the future of coral reefs is at risk, with potentially catastrophic consequences for the planet.

What role do coral reefs play in maintaining the balance of the planet's biosphere?

What are some of the major threats faced by coral reefs today?

What impact does plastic pollution have on coral reefs?

How has the frequency of bleaching events changed from the 1980s to now?

Why is the loss of coral reefs considered catastrophic for the future?