New Science and Management Approaches to Support Coral Reefs in a Time of Rapid Climate Change

Dear Colleagues,

Coral reefs are among the most productive and biodiverse ecosystems in the world. Humans rely on these coral reef ecosystems to provide significant ecological, economic, social, and cultural resources. The climate crisis is the single greatest threat to coral reefs and the livelihoods, security, and wellbeing of the global population, particularly populations adjacent to coral reefs.

Without radically reducing carbon emissions, the ocean is predicted to be 1–3 °C warmer, 0.2 pH units more acidic, and up to 1 m higher by 2050. Mitigating climate change requires collective action and rapid decarbonization, including an unprecedented energy transition. This calls for research and science-based decision making across political and corporate leaders, in addition to action by individuals on all levels.

We encourage research from individuals and organisations associated with coral reefs, the acceleration of heat tolerance of corals, methods for mass-producing coral, and education and communication strategies designed to strengthen individual and community climate action.

This Special Issue highlights diverse research solutions for increasing the scales and effectiveness of coral restoration and diverse management approaches and encourages increased communication and collaboration with a broad community of practitioners, traditional owners, managers and politicians to share knowledge and take action to support coral reef recovery, while emphasising the critical importance of reducing carbon emissions. 

Our goal for this Special Edition is to inform, inspire and influence people to make a positive changes to preserve for reefs and our future.

Dr. Adam Smith
Prof. John 'Charlie' Veron
Prof. Peter Harrison
Dr. Katharina Fabricius
Guest Editors

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