Coral Reef Destruction

Coral reef destruction is becoming a greater environmental issue everyday. For example, in the Phillipines 70% of reef has been completely destroyed and only 5% remains unharmed. The destruction is mainly contributed to humans because of the way that we live. These reefs may be damaged in a variety of ways that include global warming, water pollution, sediment from coastal development, and destructive fishing techniques (dynamite).

The main way a coral reef dies is know as coral bleaching, due to a change in their natural habitat. Coral reefs are extremely important in many aspects environmentally and economically. They protect and shorelines from erosion and storm damage. Economically, these reefs bring in a lot of tourists to admire their beauty and to fish among the water they inhabit.

Since about 30% of the reefs are completely destroyed it is very important that we work harder to protect them. The main thing to focus on is global warming by reducing pollution and polluted water runoff. Using less fossil fuels and water will reduce emissions from cars and wastewater from getting into the oceans. Other helpful ways to help in the protection of coral reefs are planting trees, volunteering for coral reef cleanup, and also, doing something as simple as spreading the word of the harms of the degradation.