Coral reefs are nurseries of the ocean. Healthy reefs are vital for human health.
Divers can be the difference between a healthy reef and a tragedy.
Many countires with coral reefs generate significant portions of their income through tourism. Studies show that on average, countries with coral reef industries derive more than half of their gross national product from them. The biodiversity of marinelife and protected beaches supported by coral reefs provide an inviting setting for sightseers, sunbathers, snorkelers, and scuba divers. In fact, there are more than 8.5 million certified scuba diuvers in the United States who spend money of dive vacations each year. In areas that depend on their tourism industry, reef destruction creates a significant loss of employment in the tourism, marine recreation, and sport fishing industries.