Coral reefs are among the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems. However, degradation of coral reefs is escalating worldwide. Currently, coral reef related ecosystem service declines are estimated at 2.7 trillion USD globally and there are predictions of ecosystem collapses and keystone-species extinctions by 2050. Given the multiple threats to coral reefs and the impacts of their loss not only in ecological terms but also societal, critical management of these ecosystems is required. Solutions for protecting and restoring coral reefs do exist but it is complex with knowledge gaps. We need to understand the stressors that lead to coral mortality, when and how to protect and restore remnant coral populations, and research and implement methods to help corals adapt to a changing ocean.

Coral reef management, however, goes beyond unravelling the ecological and technological challenges. Many coastal communities, especially small island nations and low-income countries, depend on reefs for tourism, fishing and coastal protection. Therefore, careful evaluation of the impacts of coral reef restoration on coastal community livelihoods, whilst balancing the need for restoration is required. By bringing together diverse expertise, this webinar aims to spark a conversation about the key scientific, socio-economic, and technological challenges to restoring and protecting coral reefs and explore ways of overcoming them. 

Register for the event here: https://www.bigmarker.com/cellpress-societyjournals/Restoring-the-future-of-coral-reefs