But the surveys deeper purpose, as it were, is to create a record of vast natural wonders that are fast disappearing. Over the past 50 years the world has lost about 40 percent of its coral reefs, killed off by destructive fishing, pollution, and climate change. The sponsors of the survey claim that as this decimation of the reefs continuesand it willit will have a major impact on the lives of some home 500 million people who rely on these fragile habitats for saltwater corals food, tourism income, and coastal protection. Thats the sad, even tragic part. You’ve read 1 of 10 free articles this month Get unlimited access to Newsweek for $2.99/mo.
The Knight Agency 