Reef Encounters February 14, 2008
An old post worth repeating.
Like many natural wonders that have caught the attention of global tourism, the sea-floor and in particular the coral reefs suffer from too much interest. As well meaning tourists and water-sports enthusiasts, we descend in our thousands if not millions on and into the world’s tropical and coastal waters. Unfortunately the damage we leave behind is becoming all too obvious. Marine life, and the sea on which we depend, surf and swim, is under threat from pollution, tourism, over-fishing and other damaging activities.
Corals and coral reefs are extremely sensitive, just walking on a reef can damage fragile coral that can take years to regrow. Many coral reefs are constantly being damaged by cruiseship anchors, legal and illegal spillage, sewage, tourists breaking off chunks of coral as a keep sake (however small) and commercial harvesting for sale to tourists and vacation divers like us.
It is unlikely that this disregard for our coral reefs will stop any time soon, but we can all make a difference. Next time you’re on vacation just think how you can make a difference even if it is just saying no to the little things.
Al - Zoozoo2
- Posted in : life, scuba diving
- Author : Al
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