Sustainability

Saving the reef

Everyone's proper behaviour is the first step for the protection of any ecosystem, but this must necessarily be followed by political efforts world-wide. 60% of the world's reefs have been classed as "at risk" by the UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme). Among the main causes of the destruction of corals are the over-exploitation of fishing, tourist developments and a massive use of fertilisers. In 2001, the UN Environmental Agency launched a multibillionaire project for the protection of reefs all over the world. The initiative is called International Coral Reef Action Network, has obtained 10 million dollars' funds from the United Nations and expects to raise another 20 for the management of the 10 most "critical'" areas. This will include the mapping and monitoring of reefs, financial assistance to fishermen, improvements of tourist facilities, training and educational programs for local communities. The main areas selected for this first stage of the project are: the coasts of Kenya, Madagascar and Seychelles, Indonesia, Jamaica, Mexico and the Solomon Islands.