Coral reefs are an incredibly valuable ecosystem.  Not only are they very important for nature, but they represent a very high value for humankind, supporting millions of people whose lives depend on these natural resources for a source of food and income.

Estimates in this report show that coral reefs provide each year nearly US$30 billion in net benefits in goods and services to world economies, including tourism, fisheries and coastal protection.

Yet coral reefs are under heavy pressure. Already, 27% are permanently lost and with current trends, a further 30% are at risk of being lost in the coming thirty years. With such devastating levels of destruction, the social and economic implications for the millions of people who depend on coral reefs are of great concern.