A Better Earth: How You Can Help Protect Our Coral Reefs

Our coral reefs are one of our planet's diverse ecosystems and are vital to maintaining our ocean's health. These underwater structures shelter many marine species, despite only covering less than 1% of the ocean floor. They also provide nursery grounds and protect coastlines from erosion. 

Sadly, climate change, overfishing, and pollution threaten our coral reefs. You should also know that your daily habits outside the water can impact your health, even if you live far from the coastline. Fortunately, you can help improve their well-being by adopting specific lifestyle changes. 

Whether you're visiting coral reefs or just a concerned citizen, here are nine tips you can do to protect our coral reefs. 

Visiting Coral Reefs

Visiting coral reefs can be exciting and enriching, especially for ocean enthusiasts. It’s also the perfect time to learn about the beauty of marine life. However, being a responsible tourist goes beyond shopping for sustainable surf apparel.

9 Ways to Help Protect Coral Reefs Daily

While initiatives and responsible tourism can help protect our reefs, remember that they may not be enough to protect our delicate underwater structures. Here's how you can help protect our coral reefs, even if you live far from the beach. 

1. Practice Safe and Responsible Diving and Snorkeling

Like other things, you must prioritize safety and responsibility, especially when diving and snorkeling. Avoid touching the reefs and anchoring the boats on them. They can get hurt from contact, and anchoring can kill the corals. Instead, it’s best to look for sandy bottoms or use moorings. 

2. Use Reef-Friendly Sun Protection Methods

While sunscreen can help protect your skin against the sun’s ultraviolet rays, remember that some components can harm or destroy coral life. Educate yourself on alternative options that won’t hurt the reefs. You can also minimize sunscreen use by wearing long-sleeved shirts or rash guards. That way, you can avoid sunburn and help protect marine life. 

3. Recycle and Dispose of Trash Correctly

You can prevent marine litter from damaging coral reefs by practicing the three R’s (reduce, reuse, and recycle) and disposing of garbage properly in bins. Never leave rubbish on the beach or throw cigarette butts into the sand. You can also volunteer to collect litter in your community and participate in clean-up events. 

4. Limit Your Fertilizer Use 

Excessive fertilizer use on lawns harms water quality by washing nutrients into waterways, eventually harming coral reefs.

5. Minimize Stormwater Runoff

Reducing stormwater runoff can prevent pollution and flooding. You can also use rain barrels and install water catchments or rain gardens to collect rainwater. 

6. Conserve Energy at Home and Work

You can save energy at home by switching off unused lights and electronic devices and purchasing energy-efficient appliances. You should also switch off lights and computers when leaving your office. 

7. Use Eco-Friendly Transportation Modes

Instead of driving a car, use eco-friendly transportation like public transport, biking, or walking. You can also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions that cause ocean acidification and coral bleaching by choosing fuel-efficient vehicles if you should drive. 

8. Find the Right Aquarium Fish 

When buying aquarium fish, avoid purchasing living coral and ensure the shop collects the marine life sustainably.

9. Educate Others 

Once you’ve educated yourself about the significance of coral reefs, you can raise awareness among family, friends, schools, and businesses. You can also contact local representatives to determine their initiatives to protect coral reefs and water quality. 

Rebuilding Safer Oceans

Becoming a responsible steward of our planet goes beyond shopping for sustainable surf apparel and supporting initiatives. You can help protect our coral reefs by adopting eco-friendly habits and promoting responsible tourism.

Salters Surf Shop offers  sustainable surf apparel to protect the ocean on your salty adventures. We donate ten percent to non-government organizations fighting for ocean protection. Buy now!