ATHENS, Greece (AP) — The world is not doing enough to protect coral reefs, the United Nations’ special envoy for the ocean said Tuesday in defense of the marine ecosystems that protect biodiversity, sustain underwater life and produce some of the oxygen we breathe.
In an interview with The Associated Press on the sidelines of an international ocean conference in Greece, Peter Thomson suggested that all significant coral reefs should be included in marine protected areas under what is known as the “30x30” initiative — a plan to designate 30% of the world’s land and ocean areas as protected areas by 2030.
Top reef scientists on Monday announced that coral reefs are experiencing global bleaching for the fourth time — and the second time in just 10 years – as a result of warming oceans amid human-caused climate change.
Bleaching occurs when stressed coral, which are invertebrates, expel the algae that provide their food and give them their vibrant colors. Although the coral can recover, severe and prolonged bleaching can kill it.
Chicago Bears are set to be featured on 'Hard Knocks' for first time
Kurdish separatists and water issues loom large in long
Cher, Ozzy Osbourne among 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees
New archaeological findings from 2,200
South Africa's president urges parties to find common ground in talks after election deadlock
How Phish is using the Las Vegas Sphere's technology
With homelessness on the rise, Supreme Court to weigh bans on sleeping outdoors
Former Duke guard Jeremy Roach indicates he will play a final college season at Baylor
Paris Olympics: What to know and who to watch during the breakdancing competition
Oil consumption back to 2019 levels
Border mayors heading to DC for Tuesday's immigration announcement
The rainbow princess: Kate Middleton's stylish