Their disappearance would destroy the habitat of countless species. It would unravel the web of marine life that holds the potential for new chemicals, new medicines, unlocking new mysteries. It would have a devastating effect on the coastal communities from Cairns to Key West, Florida - communities whose livelihood depends upon the reefs. United States government agencies and more than 50 other organizations from around the globe sanctioned the 1997 IYOR to raise awareness of the value of coral reefs and the challenges they face.
Coral reefs are important to our future.