Scientific authorities have reported that the current coral bleaching event is the worst ever recorded, with 84% of global reefs affected. This fourth global bleaching event, escalating since 2023, surpasses the intensity of the previous significant event from 2014 to 2017. Coral bleaching occurs when warming waters cause algae living within corals to produce toxins, leading to starvation and disease risks for the corals. The rise in ocean temperatures is attributed to global warming, primarily from human activities like fossil fuel burning. Experts stress the need for fundamental action to mitigate climate change to safeguard coral reefs.
"We're looking at something that's completely changing the face of our planet and the ability of our oceans to sustain lives and livelihoods," said Mark Eakin, executive secretary for the International Coral Reef Society.
"The best way to protect coral reefs is to address the root cause of climate change. And that means reducing the human emissions that are mostly from burning of fossil fuels," Eakin said.
"The magnitude and extent of the heat stress is shocking," said Melanie McField, a marine scientist working in the Caribbean for the Healthy Reefs for Healthy People initiative.
"Bleaching is always eerie as if a silent snowfall has descended on the reef," she said.
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