A new whitepaper by the Wildlife Conservation Sociaty (WCS) and partners highlights a critical gap: coral reefs remain largely absent from global climate and nature strategies. Often called the rainforests of the sea, coral reefs support a quarter of all marine life and sustain millions of people. Yet most national biodiversity plans lack measurable targets to halt reef decline, and only one country currently includes reef indicators in its 30x30 commitments. National climate plans show similar omissions.
With reefs bleaching, nearing ecological tipping points, and jeopardising livelihoods and food security, this gap is alarming. To safeguard both biodiversity and communities, we must prioritise climate-resilient reefs in the design and management of marine protected areas.
Momentum for ocean action is building. The science and tools exist. The next few years offer a narrow but vital window to act. By working together across nations, sectors, and communities, we can protect coral reefs and the life they sustain for generations to come.
