COASTAL DEVELOPMENT

Coastal development is one of the biggest threats to coral reefs. This includes construction of hotels, resorts, and homes along the coastline, as well inland mining and logging, especially on smaller islands. This development often stirs up sediments which cover and kill corals. In the case of inland activities, once trees are removed, sediments can easily enter the ocean after rainfall. During mining activities, sediments and harmful chemicals can enter the ocean through freshwater streams or runoff.

Million tons of plastics will have made their way into our ocean by 2025.