Coral reefs are disappearing at alarming rates

Scientists from 23 countries have confirmed that Earth has crossed its first major climate tipping point—the mass death of warm-water coral reefs.

Over half of global coral cover has vanished, and 80% of reefs have suffered bleaching since 2023. Ocean warming, which has quadrupled since the 1980s, along with rising acidification, are the primary drivers.

Coral reefs contribute an estimated $9.9 trillion annually through fishing and tourism, and support around one billion people worldwide. Losing them threatens ecosystems, economies, and coastal protection.

Experts are urging deeper emission cuts and stronger conservation strategies, such as creating marine protected areas, reducing overfishing, and reducing pollution entering the oceans.

Efforts to breed heat-tolerant corals and restore reefs continue, but experts warn humanity must act within a generation to avoid catastrophic climate consequences.