Coral reefs are the rainforest of the ocean, forming the foundation of underwater life. Also known as the ocean’s lungs, coral reefs absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and covert it into the oxygen we breathe, while simultaneously regulating air and water temperatures.
By 2050, if global warming continues to increase, it is predicted that all coral reefs may die out.
It is imperative to protect and restore these vital organisms in order to sustain human life. The Coral Gardeners are doing just that. Based in French Polynesia, the team seeks to educate and interact with the public and schools about the importance of coral reefs and the threats they face.
‘The children are the future. Therefore, it is our job to raise awareness not only adults, but the youth,’ says the Coral Gardeners website.
According to Coral Gardens, over 500 million people depend on coral reefs for their food, resources and income. Also, coral reefs cover less than 0.1% of Earth’s surface but provide a habitat to 25% of the known marine species.
If you want to help contribute to this worth cause, you can adopt a coral here.
Image: Instagram
