Every year is the year of something or other.
IYOR came from the grassroots, from conservation bodies, universities, aquariums and companies involved with coral reefs. They understood the threats reefs face, and wanted to help prevent further damage. IYOR grew to include more than 150 organisations in 40 countries. Volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds and ages came forward to promote coral reef awareness and conservation, and to take part in activities worldwide to assess the health of the reefs. Many of us make the annual pilgrimage to the Red Sea or farther afield to dive the warm, clear and teeming waters around coral reefs.