© Jürgen Freund / WWF
Coral Reef Rescue Initiative is working to safeguard globally-significant coral reefs and the benefits they provide against climate change and other threats.
Threatened by destructive human impacts and climate change, coral reefs are facing tough times. If we don’t act now, we will see the disappearance of coral reefs in our lifetime.
We are a group of leading scientists, NGOs and influential partners, working in collaboration with governments and communities to safeguard reefs, food security, and livelihoods against climate change.
Combining the latest science with emerging innovations in nature-based solutions and a strategic, collaborative approach, we are leading a worldwide coral reef revival.
© Jürgen Freund / WWF
© Tom Vierus / WWF-US
Climate change: a perfect storm
Ocean temperatures are rising rapidly
Coral bleaching and mortality events are becoming more widespread
Half of all tropical reefs have disappeared in the last century. We are on course to lose up to 90% by 2050 and all coral reefs by the end of the century.
© Jürgen Freund / WWF
© Jürgen Freund / WWF
Climate change is not just an environmental tragedy, it is pushing us towards a devastating humanitarian disaster.
Corals cover less than 0.1% of the ocean floor, yet provide a home to more than 25% of all marine species
850 million people depend on coral reefs for food security and livelihoods
30 million small-scale fishing jobs worldwide are supported by coral reefs
Saving 70 with 7
We're not trying to save all coral reefs. What makes our approach unique is we’re targeting locations where climate variables are least impactful, focusing resources to solve local threats and support a strategic regeneration of coral reefs.
Around 70% of climate-resilient coral reefs can be found in just 7 countries. On the map, you can see the percentage distribution among the countries.
They have the potential to give us a foothold in the recovery of coral reefs, which could lead to regeneration on a global scale.
Our goal is to give these reefs a fighting chance against climate change, to reduce the strain placed on them by exploitation and development, while also empowering coastal communities to manage them sustainably.
© Jürgen Freund / WWF
Resilient Reefs
By 2030, we expect at at least 5,000 km2 of globally-significant coral reefs within priority seascapes to be conserved and effectively managed.
- Identify coral reefs around the world that are less exposed to climate change and genetically connected to reefs around them
- Develop long-term strategies for regenerating coral reefs in these key locations
- Protect these critical reefs from local threats such as pollution, overharvesting, destructive extraction and unsustainable coastal development
© James Morgan / WWF-US
Resilient Communities
By 2030, we expect to see a major diversification in skills and livelihood opportunities in coastal communities, along with educational opportunities, improved food security and financial literacy.
- Strengthen community resilience
- Support community-led coastal resource management
- Create new opportunities for jobs in green sectors, such as renewable energy and ecotourism
© Jürgen Freund / WWF
Let’s build a
climate-ready future!
To restore the world's coral reefs, we need support from all sectors. From individuals and communities to governments and industries, collaboration is the key.