84% of Coral Reefs Bleached: A Climate Catastrophe?
A record-breaking 84% of the world’s coral reefs are experiencing severe bleaching, exceeding the previous record of 66% in 2014-17. This unprecedented event, driven by rising ocean temperatures linked to record-high global temperatures in 2024, threatens the biodiversity and ecological services provided by coral reefs. Scientists warn that continued inaction on greenhouse gas emissions will lead to further devastation, emphasizing the urgent need for emission reduction as the most effective solution. While conservation efforts are underway, these are considered insufficient without addressing the root cause of climate change.
John Q. Hosedrinker