In response to the fourth global coral bleaching event, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) along with Arizona State University (ASU), CORDIO East Africa, and MSC Foundation are strengthening their collaboration to protect coral reefs around the world. During these challenging times, these institutions are reaffirming their commitment to developing coral protection methods and promoting global cooperation in this field.
Susanne Pedersen, director at the IUCN Centre for Science and Data Centre, emphasizes the invaluable role of coral reefs in maintaining marine biodiversity and supporting the livelihoods of millions globally. “Coral reefs are not only ecosystems with immense diversity but also provide significant benefits in fisheries, tourism, and coastal protection,” notes Pedersen.
Using the Red List of Threatened Species and the Red List of Ecosystems as international standards for assessing risk, IUCN is resolute in its mission to protect coral ecosystems, and their partnership with MSC Foundation is crucial in these efforts.
Daniela Picco, Executive Director of MSC Foundation, commits to long-term marine protection, hoping to accelerate actions to preserve the oceans for future generations. “As a corporate foundation that brings unique knowledge of the sea, we have high expectations for this partnership,” says Picco.
David Obura, founder of CORDIO East Africa, highlights the importance of coral reefs for coastal economies and the livelihoods of people in tropical countries, pointing out the necessity of providing up-to-date information on their ecosystem status and the extinction risk of coral reefs.
Given the ongoing fourth global coral bleaching event, which has affected 53 countries and territories including key areas like the Great Barrier Reef and the Western Indian Ocean, the need for swift action is undeniable.
During Monaco Ocean Week 2023, the partnership was announced, which is already contributing to strengthening IUCN and expanding its conservation efforts. “Our partners have a significant impact on directing and reinforcing our actions in specific areas,” comments Beth Polidoro, Deputy Director of ASU Center for Biodiversity Outcomes.
Polidoro also expresses concern about the increasing difficulty in coral survival and the uncertainty of their ability to adapt to temperature changes. “We need to act quickly as a global community to counter climate change,” she adds.
Faced with ongoing threats to coral reefs, such as climate change, overfishing, and pollution, international cooperation and steadfast commitment from IUCN and MSC Foundation are more necessary than ever to ensure a future for coral reefs worldwide.
About the author
Grzegorz Bubak
My fascination with marine aquariums began over two decades ago when I stumbled upon an article about this topic in a magazine. Since then, the underwater world has become my obsession and passion, shaping my everyday life. I started my adventure with marine aquariums with soft corals, which were my first step into this fascinating world. Over time, captivated by the diversity and beauty of SPS corals, I decided to focus on their cultivation, which continues to fill me with constant wonder.
Thanks to my experience and passion for marine aquariums, I am ready to share my knowledge and expertise with other enthusiasts in this field. I am happy to be part of the Reef Pedia community, which serves as an invaluable source of information for all marine aquarium lovers.