Coral Reefs at Risk

Coral reefs occupy less than one percent of the Earth’s marine environment, but are home to more than a quarter of all known marine species. Reefs also serve as a buffer against incoming storm surges, protecting local populations. Unfortunately, coastal ecosystems are threatened by human activities including overfishing, agriculture, and urban development.

The World Resources Institute and its partners have assessed the threats to the world’s coral reefs. WRI's Reefs at Risk Revisited report is intended to raise awareness about the location and severity of threats to coral reefs. These results can also catalyze changes in policy and practice that could safeguard coral reefs and the benefits they provide to people for future generations.

Check out the report's maps at http://www.arcgis.com/apps/Compare/storytelling_tabbed/index.html?appid=f537896f8e30481e901938eb049a73a0.

Post source: Joseph Kerski, Education Manager for ESRI