This piece was written by Kathryn Curzon, a shark conservationist and dive travel writer for Scuba Schools International (SSI).
The effects of climate change continue to alter ocean ecosystems worldwide and could have far-reaching impacts on the billion-dollar coral reef tourism industry. But as we approach World Ocean Day 2021, it’s not too late to save our precious reefs.
How valuable is coral reef tourism?
Coral reef tourism is estimated to have a global value of US $36 billion per year, according to a study that mapped the global value and distribution of coral reef tourism. It is one of the most significant examples of nature-based tourism from a single ecosystem and generates revenues in over 100 countries and territories.
The value of coral reef tourism consists of ‘on-reef’ values, such as scuba diving and snorkeling, and ‘reef-adjacent’ values. These reef-adjacent values include benefits from healthy coral reefs such as sandy beaches, sheltered waters, healthy fisheries, coastal protection and idyllic views. The authors emphasized these values should provide a strong incentive for sustainable reef management.
How does climate change affect coral reefs?
Coral bleaching events and ocean acidification are well-known effects of climate change. Yet there are also other stressors on coral reefs that could undermine marine tourism.
Sea level rises, leading to coastal erosion, and the stronger and more frequent storms typical of the current climate, smother and destroy coral reef structures. Heavy rainfall events cause land-based pollutants and nutrients to wash into the ocean, resulting in algal blooms and a reduction in available light at reefs.
Changing ocean currents also affect reefs, by altering the connectivity between reefs and water temperature profiles at different reefs. These changes can lead to a lack of food sources and interrupt reef species’ ability to successfully breed.
If left unchecked, these complex effects could reduce the value of coral reef tourism. But all is not yet lost.
Can we reduce the impacts of climate change on coral reefs?
Absolutely! Australian scientists announced just this week that interventions could help slow the Great Barrier Reef’s climate change-fueled decline by up to 20 years. Innovative interventions, such as using ‘cloud brightening’ technology that lowers water temperatures and introducing heat-tolerant corals, could make a significant difference to coral reef survival.
In the fight to save coral reefs, seagrass beds also play a crucial role. These underwater meadows are not only vital habitat for many marine life species. A recent study in the Global Change Biology journal found seagrass meadows can help tackle ocean acidification by raising pH levels in coastal waters.
There are a variety of ways we can reduce the impacts of climate change on coral reefs, and you can be part of the solution as well.
How you can help protect coral reefs.
World Ocean Day is on 8th June 2021, making it a perfect time to commit to making a difference.
You can help protect our oceans by reducing your carbon footprint. Measures such as driving less, reducing your waste, eating less meat and refusing plastics are easy ways to help.
- Using fewer household chemicals, choosing sustainable seafood and practising good reef etiquette are also great ways to help protect coral reefs. The SSI Blue Oceans movement provides a responsible diver code you can use at home and when you travel.
Eco-conscious travel choices: Top dive destinations helping coral reefs thrive.
Marine reserves also help protect the oceans from the impacts of humans and climate change. They provide opportunities for sustainable dive tourism and important income for local communities. Marine Park fees are also often used to educate communities and tourists about issues such as sustainable fishing and conservation.
Some of the best dive destinations around the world have thriving marine reserves that you can support. Get inspired by these incredible destinations, pack your bags and make an eco-conscious travel choice today.
- Ras Mohammed National Park, Egypt
Ras Mohammed National Park offers some of the best diving in the Red Sea and is beloved by European divers. Imagine colorful reefs teeming with fish, brightly colored corals, azure waters and easy diving for all experience levels. That’s the beauty of this much-loved dive destination.
- Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Belize
When it comes to Belize scuba diving, it doesn’t get much better than exploring the stunning Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Protected since 1987, Hol Chan is famous for its reefs teeming with schools of fish, plus snorkeling with huge groups of friendly nurse sharks and curious stingrays. With the water temperature rarely dropping below 26 °C (79 °F), it’s a great year-round dive destination.
- Galapagos Marine Reserve, the Galapagos Islands
If you’re an experienced diver, the Galapagos Islands will likely be on your wish list. This incredible wildlife destination offers diving off striking volcanic islands with marine iguanas, penguins, confident sea lions and numerous different shark species. The diving is worth every bit of effort needed to get to this remote and pristine location.
Jardines de la Reina, Cuba
Less well known than many marine reserves but no less impressive, the idyllic Jardines de la Reina has around 80 dive sites. All of which are sheltered from currents and wind, making them perfect for easy-going diving and snorkeling in a thriving marine reserve. As you drift over the colorful reefs you’ll be in the company of numerous fish, sharks and more.
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Raja Ampat is a breath-taking archipelago of over 1500 jungle-clad islands and cays dotted among azure waters. Sitting in the Coral Triangle, it is a famous global biodiversity hotspot hosting more than 1000 species of fish, over 500 coral species and plenty of pelagic life. The corals are rainbow-hued and dive sites are visited by mantas, dolphins and turtles. All of which makes Raja Ampat diving incomparable to just about anywhere else on Earth.
Kathryn is a professional travel writer and editor, shark diver, marine conservationist and award-winning author. Follow her adventures @kathrynoceana or kathryncurzon.com.
About Scuba Schools International (SSI)
Scuba Schools International (SSI) is the largest professional business-based training agency in the world. For over 50 years now, SSI has provided the ultimate training experience for millions of certified divers, not only in Recreational Scuba but in every training category; Freediving, Extended Range, Rebreather Diving, Mermaid, Swim and Lifeguard. Visit the Scuba Schools International websitefor more information.
This piece was prepared online by Panuruji Kenta, Publisher, SEVENSEAS Media