What we can do to protect coral reefs?

Coral reefs are under great stress everywhere and we can take action to protect them. Some suggestions:

• Recycle - by recycling all items that we can, we are taking an important step in keeping physical and chemical pollutants out of our waterways.

• Pick up trash - whenever you are near a waterway, take a few moments to collect plastic items to dispose in the refuse bin. Plastic decomposes slowly; marine animals either mistake plastics for food or are caught in it as they swim.

• Be aware of the amount of carbon dioxide that we are placing in the atmosphere. There is a strong link between ocean acidification and excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Scientists are concerned that this acidification is having an adverse effect on the reefs.

• Since coral reef ecosystems are being destroyed through over-fishing it is always best to eat those species that can survive in sustainable numbers.

• Carefully monitor runoff: Sediment from overdevelopment and chemical runoff harm coral reefs by damaging their ability to reproduce and feed.

• Support organizations that promote the preservation of reefs, our oceans, our planet; Deep Blue Discoveries supports the Coral Reef Alliance - www.coral.org