Our Reefs, Our Heritage, Our Responsibility
What is the International Year of the Reef?
2008 has been designated the International Year of the Reef by the International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI). IYOR 2008 is a worldwide campaign to raise awareness about the value and importance of coral reefs and threats to their sustainability, and to motivate people to take action to protect them. All individuals, governments, corporations, schools and organizations are welcome and actively encouraged to participate in IYOR 2008.
IYOR 2008 Goals
- Strengthen awareness about ecological, economic, social and cultural value of coral reefs and associated ecosystems;
- Improve understanding of the critical threats to reefs and generate both practical and innovative solutions to reduce these threats;
- Generate urgent action to develop and implement effective management strategies for conservation and sustainable use of these ecosystems.
Why is IYOR 2008 important?
Coral reefs are some of the oldest and most diverse ecosystems on the planet. They provide resources and services worth an estimated US$ 375 billion each year, a staggering amount for ecosystems that cover less than one percent of the earth’s surface. Millions of people and thousands of communities all over the world depend on coral reefs for food, storm protection, jobs, medicines, and recreational opportunities.
Unfortunately, many of the world’s coral reefs (including the associated seagrass beds and mangrove habitats) have been damaged or destroyed due to increasing human impacts, climate change, and other factors. According to the report “Status of Coral Reefs of the World: 2004”, 70% of the world’s coral reefs are threatened or destroyed, 20% of those are damaged beyond repair, and within the Caribbean alone, many coral reefs have lost 80% of coral species. The decline and loss of coral reef ecosystems has significant social, economic, and ecological impacts on people and communities around the world.
IYOR 2008 in Malaysia
Malaysia is part of The Coral Triangle, recognized as the region of the world’s oceans with the highest marine biodiversity. There is a need to manage our coral reefs in a sustainable and integrated manner, with active stakeholder involvement, while preserving the marine ecosystem based on sound science.
Malaysia will be an active participant in IYOR 2008. Initiatives to promote conservation action and strengthen long-term policies and legislation for coral reef conservation will be coordinated by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Corporations, schools, communities and individuals are invited to participate. Anyone is welcome!
For further information, check out www.iyor.org
