Record-breaking Impacts
Since January 2023, around 84% of the world's coral reefs have experienced bleaching-related heat stress – the worst global bleaching event ever.

 

Far-reaching Consequences
At least 83 countries and territories are affected.

 

New Alarm Levels
Due to the intensity, the NOAA warning scale has been extended (levels 3–5) to reflect the increasing risk of massive coral mortality.

 

Devastating Local Effects
In 2024, 49% of the surveyed reefs at the Great Barrier Reef lost over 30% of their corals, with 32% losing more than 60%.

 

Causes
Rising sea temperatures due to greenhouse gases force corals to expel their symbiotic algae – they turn white and weakened.

 

Why It Matters
Reefs secure enormous biodiversity, protect coastlines, and provide livelihoods. Their loss threatens food security, economies, and ecosystems.

 

Urgent Need for Action
Scientists call for rapid emission reductions, less pollution, coral restoration, and reduced overfishing to save reefs.