Innovative technology can help protect coral reefs and you can too

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Earth Agenda Foundation together with Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Veterinary Science, the Department of Marine and Costal Resources and SCG use 3D printing to create an artificial coral reef structure. Following its placement on the sea floor of the Gulf of Thailand in 2020, a variety of marine species have been seen on this complex, stable and durable underwater house. A broken piece of coral can grow on the 3D printed artificial coral reef over a period of time. (Photo courtesy of Earth Agenda Foundation)

The brightly colored coral reefs teeming with marine life are far more than just a magnificent sight. The natural undersea attractions that beckon snorkelers and divers also create recreational and job opportunities, generating income for local communities and businesses. More importantly, coral reefs provide a habitat for a diversity of marine creatures and buffer the shores from waves that may flood coastal communities, thus helping prevent loss of life and property. 

 

In spite of their importance, coral reefs in the Thai seas and the world’s oceans are facing a plethora of threats including overfishing, physical damage from coastal development, pollution, removal for sale, and unsustainable tourism. Warming waters caused by climate change are causing coral bleaching. These threats have affected and continue to affect the health of the oceans and the ecosystems that support ocean life.

 

A 2018 survey on the status of coral reefs in Thailand by the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) showed that about 37% are damaged or severely damaged, 31.6% are in fairly healthy condition and the rest (31.4%) are in good or very good condition.

 

Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/innovative-technology-can-help-protect-coral-reefs-and-you-can-too/

 

-- © Copyright Thai PBS 2022-09-28

 

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[hotchilli]

Would be better to teach fishermen not to drag their nets over coral reefs in the endless search for the few remaining fish left in the ocean, and tourist boats dropping their anchors and occupants on them.