International Year The Year in Review of the Reef 2008 Compiled by F. Staub and L. Chhay IYOR MISSION To raise awareness of, and action regarding, the value of coral reefs and associated ecosystems, threats to their health, and management solutions; and to facilitate public involvement in coral reef conservation-related activities in all countries.

This report was funded by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA, http://www.noaa.gov), Project AWARE Foundation (http://www.projectaware.org), the Government of Japan (http://www.env.go.jp/en), the Coral Reef Initiatives for the Pacific (http://www.crisponline.net), and the U.S. Department of State (http://www.state.gov) and compiled by Francis Staub (AJH Environmental Services, http:// www.environmentservices.com) and Lauren Chhay (NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program, http://coralreef.noaa.gov).

Staub, F. and L. Chhay, (Eds.). 2010. International Year of the Reef 2008: The Year in Review. International Coral Reef Initiative. Wyland ©2008 [ 1 ] Contents 1 Foreword Foreword 3 A Note from the Coordinator 5 Background

9 Global Initiatives From landlocked urban centers to coastal villages, from scientists and business 17 North America and the professionals to artists and traditional fishers, the 2008 International Year of the Caribbean Region Reef (IYOR) provided a tremendous opportunity to celebrate the wonders and values of coral reefs, bring attention to their peril, and inspire action to support 30 Central and South America their protection. 33 Asia and the Pacific Region During the first IYOR in 1997, coral reefs around the world experienced massive 45 Middle East bleaching due to elevated sea surface temperatures associated with the El Nino 47 Europe of 1997–1998. In the years since, coral reefs have continued to suffer from simi- 49 Africa lar bleaching events. Over the last decade we also have gained new understanding of another terrible threat from climate change: ocean acidification. The growing 52 Cold-Water Corals threat of climate change should compel us to tackle greenhouse gas emissions and 54 Conclusion redouble our efforts to address more tractable threats, such as land-based sources of pollution and unsustainable fishing. While the situation is daunting, much en-

Note: The [ ] means that the couraging news exists. “resource” is available on the CD [ 2 ] International year of the reef

The last decade has witnessed inspir- We have also begun to develop and inspire the next generation of con- ing actions to conserve the most di- share new tools to address the threats servation leaders, and empower local verse and pristine coral reefs on the to coral reefs, such as improved fore- communities in support of coral con- planet, including declarations of the casting of bleaching events, stronger servation and sustainable development Micronesia and Caribbean Challenges education and outreach programs, and around the globe. and the Coral Triangle Initiative, increased attention to enhancing the and designations of the world’s larg- welfare of coastal communities and est marine protected areas, including promoting their participation in coast- the Phoenix Islands of Kiribati, the al and coral reef management. Other Papahānaumokuākea Marine National particularly promising endeavors, in- Monument in the Northwestern spired by IYOR 2008, include efforts Hawaiian Islands, and most recently, to educate a new generation of leaders —Kacky Andrews Program Manager the Pacific Remote Islands, Rose Atoll, so they can meet the rising challenges Coral Reef Conservation Program and Mariana Trench Marine National of coral reef conservation. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Monuments. Together, these initiatives Administration, USA are helping to protect thousands of The IYOR campaign of 2008 has come square miles of coral reefs, mangroves to a close but the mission is not over – and seagrasses and immeasurable num- it is a new beginning to reinforce com- bers of associated coral reef species. mitments and build new partnerships, [ 3 ] A Note from the Coordinator

Nations, organizations, and individuals around the world have joined the International Year of the Reef 2008 (IYOR 2008)—from international to national, from university to village children, and every level in between—to raise awareness about the value and importance of coral reefs and threats to their sustainability and to motivate people to take action to protect them. A tremendous amount of materi- al (in several languages) was produced during the year, including educational DVDs, posters, children’s books, and much more. More than 630 events were organized in over 65 countries, territories, and economies around the world.

I would like to thank you for your support and your commitment to the ma- rine environment. Special thanks to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for their financial support. Without NOAA, IYOR 2008 would not have been possible. Special thanks to the U.S. Department of State, which made possible the organization of side events at major international

IYOR 2008 Poster (Patricia Hord Graphik Design). venues and provided feedback and guidance throughout the year. [ 4 ] International year of the reef

Bringing the Light, 2008 Even though 2008 has come to an end, Thank you again for your support and (38” x 28”, oil on canvas), Troy Hotard the spirit of IYOR 2008 lives on. There your commitment. are many upcoming events we will con- tinue to support to help build aware- This report is a com- ness of coral reefs and the threats they pilation of accom- face. plishments, high- lighting only a few —Francis Staub, IYOR 2008 Coordinator examples of activi- ties that took place throughout the year. It was not easy to We ourselves feel that what we are do- choose among the ing is just a drop in the ocean. But the many actions, projects, activities and ocean would be less because of that programs. We should be proud of our missing drop. work; IYOR 2008 was the catalyst for the development of some critical ac- —Mother Theresa tions that we expect will have signif- icant positive impacts on coral reef conservation in the near future. [ 5 ] Background

The international year of the reef was an international campaign designed to ef- fectively communicate to disparate target audiences the value and importance of the world’s coral reefs and the threats to the reefs’ sustainability and to motivate these audiences to take action to protect coral reefs. The first IYOR was declared and implemented in 1997 in response to the increasing threats and loss of coral reefs and associated ecosystems. It was a global effort to raise awareness and un- derstanding of coral reefs and the threats they face and to support related con- servation, research, and management efforts. Despite its success in raising global awareness of coral reefs and associated ecosystems, ten years later, there remained an urgent need to increase awareness and to take action to further conserve and manage coral reefs and associated ecosystems and appreciate their value to hu-

Coral reefs support some of the highest manity. With this in mind, the International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI) and biodiversity per unit area of any ecosystem on earth. its members designated 2008 as the International Year of the Reef 2008 (IYOR 2008) during its General Meeting in October 2006. [ 6 ] International year of the reef

IYOR 2008 was a year-long campaign The International Coral Reef Initiative of events and initiatives hosted by gov- (Icri) ernments, individuals, non-governmen- tal organizations (NGOs), corporations, The International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI) is a unique and schools around the world to pro- public-private partnership that brings together gov- mote conservation action and strength- ernments, international organizations, scientific en- en long-term constituencies for coral reef tities, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) committed to reversing conservation. Anyone was welcome and the global degradation of coral reefs and related ecosystems, such as man- actively encouraged to participate in this grove forests and seagrass meadows, by promoting the conservation and campaign. sustainable use of these resources for future generations. Since its estab- lishment in 1995, ICRI has been a driving force behind scientific, governmen- iyor 2008 goals tal, and civil society efforts to protect coral reefs and related ecosystems.

The ICRI approach is to provide a platform for information sharing as well as ■■ Strengthen awareness about ecological, to mobilize governments and a wide range of other stakeholders in an effort economic, social, and cultural value of to improve management practices, increase capacity and political support, coral reefs and associated ecosystems and share information on the health of these fragile ecosystems. During IYOR ■■ Improve understanding of the critical 2008, the ICRI secretariat was co-chaired by the governments of the United threats to reefs and generate both prac- States and Mexico. Find out more by visiting http://www.icriforum.org. tical and innovative solutions to reduce these threats The Year in Review [ 7 ]

■■ Generate urgent action to develop Director and Designer at Project Core Claudia McMurray, U.S. Department and implement effective manage- Inc., a design company founded by Mr. of State, Assistant Secretary for ment strategies for conservation and Bokunen Naka, a famous woodblock Oceans, Environment and Science; sustainable use of these ecosystems print artist. The logo was translated in- Noah Idechong, Vice Speaker of to more than ten languages and a few the Palau House of Delegates; Vice iyor 2008 logo countries made their own logos. Admiral Conrad Lautenbacher, Under Secretary of Commerce for The IYOR 2008 logo was the result launch of iyor 2008 Oceans and Atmosphere and NOAA of a worldwide contest organized by Administrator; and Drew Richardson, the ICRI. Twenty-seven proposals The International Year of the Reef 2008 President and Chief Operating Officer from around the world were received was officially launched on the evening of the Professional Association of for consideration. The final vote for of January 24, 2008, in Washington Diving Instructors (PADI); among the logo was made during the ICRI D.C., at a celebration event hosted and others, demonstrated the importance General Meeting held in Japan in April sponsored by The World Bank. Guests of the IYOR 2008 campaign. 2007. The designer of the winning lo- gathered from all over the world to go was Mr. Masami Nakamine, the Art attend the event, including repre- The launch was preceded by a press sentatives from governments, organi- conference that highlighted planned zations, embassies, the private sector, international activities for the year. and the conservation and scientific A report on the 2005 coral bleach- communities. Remarks were given by ing event in the Caribbean that affect- IYOR 2008 logo, designed by Mr. Masami Nakamine. [ 8 ] IYOR National Launches December 9, 2007 » Japan national launch December 14, 2007 » The county of Maui (HI) proclaims 2008 as the Year of ed more than 80 percent of the reefs the Reef [ ] in the region was also released [ ]. January 9, 2008 » Barbados national launch Minister Estrosi, Secretary of State in January 18, 2008 » Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands proclaims charge of French Overseas Territories, 2008 as the Year of the Reef [ ] and Claudia McMurray addressed the January 25, 2008 » Hawai`i proclaims 2008 as the Year of the Reef press conference. The press confer- January 25, 2008 » Germany national launch ence provided a brief glimpse into the February 1, 2008 » Guam proclaims 2008 as the Year of the Reef [ ] phenomenal effort that the coral reef February 4, 2008 » France national launch community and general public were February 7, 2008 » The Bahamas proclaims 2008 as the Year of the Reef [ ] putting into making the year a suc- February 8, 2008 » Turks and Caicos Islands national launch cess. On the 25th of January, a mini- February 20–24, 2008 » Malaysia national launch symposium was held at the Mexican February 25–29, 2008 » Regional launch of the Pacific Year of the Reef Cultural Centre in Washington, D.C., March 3, 2008 » Fiji national launch [ ] to showcase in more detail selected ac- March 16, 2008 » Belize national launch tivities planned for IYOR 2008 around March 28, 2008 » Indonesia national launch the world. Opening remarks were giv- April 9, 2008 » Brazil national launch en by His Excellency Arturo Sarukhan, April 9, 2008 » Solomon Islands national launch Ambassador of Mexico to the United April 17, 2008 » American Samoa launch States of America, an avid diver and April 22, 2008 » Palau proclaims 2008 as the Year of the Reef [ ] lover of the ocean. June 24, 2008 » IYOR 2008 Declaration in Florida, USA [ ] August 9, 2008 » Singapore national launch [ 9 ] Global Initiatives

the icri secretariat

The ICRI secretariat capitalized upon IYOR 2008 to promote coral reef and as- sociated ecosystems at major international events and international conventions throughout the year. The following side events were organized by the ICRI sec- retariat:

■■ “Marine Biodiversity and the International Year of the Reef ” event at the Ninth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP 9) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (May 2008) ■■ Participants of the “Marine Biodiversity and the A “coral reef ” event at the International Union for Conservation of Nature International Year of the Reef” event at the Ninth (IUCN) World Conservation Congress Marine Pavilion (October 2008) meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (May 2008). ■■ An “ICRI International Year of the Reef ” event at the 10th Conference of Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (November 2008) [ 10 ] International year of the reef

11th international IYOR 2008 was recognized during the G8 Environment Ministers Meeting 2008 coral reef symposium: that was held in Kobe, Japan at the end of May, 2008. At the meeting, the minis- call to action ters adopted the “Kobe Call for Action for Biodiversity” [ ] to call upon coun- tries to work together to promote actions to protect biological diversity. The The following is excerpted from the Call Call for Action specifically welcomed “…the International Year of the Reef: 2008 to Action: in this context as a means to raise awareness of the vital environmental and economic importance of coral reef ecosystems to people worldwide and to pro- At the 11th International Coral Reef mote improved coral reef conservation…” Symposium (ICRS) held in July 2008, The ICRI secretariat also initiated several partnerships with ongoing initiatives …over 3,000 experts from 75 countries in order to maximize efforts. As part of its partnership with the IYOR 2008 cam- assembled to face some hard truths: paign, the World Water Monitoring Day (WWMD) program encouraged citizens coral reefs are teetering on the edge around the globe to monitor their oceans in celebration of IYOR 2008. Thus, of survival and it is our fault. High WWMD donated nearly 100 water test kits to low- and middle-income countries levels of carbon dioxide in the atmo- that contain coral reefs, and did the same in 2009. sphere have produced a lethal com- bination of hotter and less alkaline Several countries (e.g., Palau, Jamaica, and Costa Rica) chose to celebrate IYOR seawater. Pervasive overfishing, pollu- 2008 in conjunction with World Ocean Day (June 8), as the theme for 2008 was tion, coastal development, and phys- “helping our climate / helping our ocean,” with a special focus on coral reefs. ical damage further undermine reef health, and consequently, that of the The Year in Review [ 11 ]

coral reefs would rob the world of one Monitoring Network (GCRMN), was of nature’s most precious gifts. released. The report includes the expert opinions of 372 coral reef scientists Despite these challenges, it is not and managers from 96 countries, terri- too late to save coral reefs. The 11th tories, and economies and it states that: people and ecosystems depending up- ICRS gave a renewed sense of pur- on them…. pose and hope for the future. A ■■ The world has “effectively lost” 19 consensus emerged that society has percent of the original area of coral Coral reefs feed, protect, and provide both the knowledge and the tools to reefs since 1950; livelihoods for hundreds of millions bring coral reefs back from the brink. ■■ 15 percent of coral reefs are in a “crit- of people around the world. They cre- The only question is—will we act?… ical” state with loss possible within ate homes for billions of fish and oth- [ ] the next 10 to 20 years; er animals, buffer coastlines from the ■■ 20 percent are seriously “threatened” ravages of storms, and provide rich eco- the status of coral with loss predicted in 20 to 40 years; nomic opportunities through tourism reefs of the world: and and fishing. Their value to society has 2008 ■■ 46 percent of the world’s reefs are re- been estimated at more than $29 bil- garded as healthy and not under any lion (U.S. Dollars) per year. Reefs are In December 2008, the “Status of immediate threat of destruction… the dynamic centers of the most con- Coral Reefs of the World: 2008” re- except for “currently unpredictable” centrated biodiversity on Earth. Losing port, edited by the Global Coral Reef global climate threats. [ 12 ] International year of the reef

“Effectively lost” means that these coral scenario assuming that human stresses diminished food supplies, loss of tour- reefs are not functioning because: there will continue to increase and no dra- ism potential, and a reduction of coast- are few live corals and the remaining matic improvements will occur in coral al protection for low-lying areas near corals are either broken, diseased, or reef management. Moreover, these pre- coral reefs. covered in sediment; fish populations dictions do not factor in the threats of are seriously over-fished with very few global climate change—which are pre- Since the last GCRMN report was is- large predators and algal-grazing fish dicted to be inevitable, but without sued in 2004, overall, the coral reefs remaining; there is clear evidence of clear timelines. of the world have effectively “marked pollution with poor-quality, turbid wa- time” because of a near balance be- ter; and reefs are being over-grown with The global climate change threats of tween reef recovery and degradation. macro-algae, sponges, or other organ- ocean warming, increasing ocean acid- Reefs in the Indian Ocean and west- isms favored by polluted waters. This ification, and more intense tropical ern Pacific have recovered well after also means that the 500 million people storms are now regarded by the world’s the climate change-induced bleaching dependent on these coral reefs could be leading scientists and managers as the in 1998 and human damage. But, the deprived of reef goods and services in greatest threats to all of the world’s Indian Ocean tsunami, more bleach- food, coastal protection, and income coral reefs; unless urgent action is tak- ing, and human pressures have slowed from tourism in the near future. en soon to reverse the rate of green- or reversed recovery on many of these house emissions, there will be massive reefs. Those reefs in the Caribbean Predictions of “critical” and “threat- losses of coral reefs around the world. have been less fortunate, due to the ef- ened” are based on a “business as usual” This will mean extinction of species, fects of the 2005 mass bleaching event. The Year in Review [ 13 ]

The critical finding emerging from the Coral Reefs of the World: 2008” International, Project Aware, the 2008 GCRMN report was that ap- and “Socioeconomic Conditions International Union for Conservation proximately 500 million people have along the World’s Tropical Coasts: of Nature, and World Resources some level of dependence upon coral 2008.” NOAA leadership, Deputy Institute. reefs for food resources and/or supple- Assistant Secretary Timothy Keeney, mentary income from fishing, coastal and National Ocean Service Assistant Synthesizing data from close to 14,000 protection, building materials, and in- Administrator John Dunnigan partic- household interviews in 29 countries, come from tourism. Of this number, ipated in an evening reception at the the “Socioeconomic Conditions Along about 30 million are almost totally de- Washington D.C. National Aquarium the World’s Tropical Coasts: 2008” re- pendent on coral reefs. [ ] on December 9. On December 10, port highlights dependence on coral the NOAA Coral Reef Conservation reefs by local communities in devel- socioeconomic Program (CRCP) Director, Kacky oping countries, provides information conditions along Andrews and the reports’ editors, Drs. on perceived threats to coastal resourc- the world’s tropical Clive Wilkinson and Christy Loper, es, and points to the inability of coastal coasts: 2008 attended a press event at the Australian managers to effectively implement de- Embassy. Reporters from seven news cades-old recommendations as a signif- NOAA participated in the U.S. re- outlets attended either at the press icant barrier to coral reef protection. lease of two NOAA-supported Global briefing or reception. Additional part- Coral Reef Monitoring Network ners for the launch events included the “Socioeconomic Conditions Along (GCRMN) reports: the “Status of U.S. State Department, Conservation the World’s Tropical Coasts: 2008” [ 14 ] International year of the reef

is the first regional and global syn- art for the reefs thesis of socioeconomic data look- ing at the importance of healthy coral The art industry has always played a reefs for communities located along critical role in provoking thought and the world’s tropical coasts. The Global generating dialogue to generate envi- Socioeconomic Monitoring Initiative ronmental awareness. Many marine (SocMon) is an initiative aimed at help- artists share this vision and, through ing coastal managers better understand their work, raise awareness and edu- and incorporate the socioeconom- cate the public about the beauty and ic context into coastal management fragile nature of the ocean’s coral reef programs. This initiative is being- im systems. Five of these artists/studios plemented at the global and regional donated their work to support the levels and the coordinator for the pro- International Year of the Reef; Artistic gram is part of the NOAA CRCP. Visions Studios, Ronald Wedell, Tanya Haynes, Troy Hotard Studio, The socioeconomic report is the first- and Wyland. For more information, ever comprehensive analysis of da- visit http://www.iyor.org/gallery. In ta from SocMon and was produced addition, IYOR 2008 included sev- in partnership with Conservation eral other artistic initiatives, as de- International [ ]. scribed on the following page. Vance, Age 12, Philippines – AWARE Kids IYOR Art Contest Winner 2008 (Project AWARE Foundation). [ 15 ] Save Me by Shany John*, Class VIII, JNV, Minicoy

Project Aware Kids IYOR 2008 Art artwork can be viewed at http://www. I am a little polyp Who builds the coral paradise Contest projectaware.org/kids/html/iyotr08_ I am the little builder Children ages 3–12 took creative ac- artcontest.asp. Who makes this Island tion to help protect reefs by entering I made this island their artwork and conservation mes- Reef Check IYOR 2008 Song With the remnants of me sages in this unique global art con- The Year of the Reef Song was written The rising heat starves me test. Nearly 1,400 entries were received for IYOR 2008 by Russ Lesser, Reef The raging pollution scares me by Project AWARE Kids from chil- Check Board Member and Body Glove The damaged waste stifles me The plying vessels deafen me President. Russ and his band, Thin Ice, dren around the world featuring stun- My skin gets bleached ning artwork on the theme “Celebrate donated it to Reef Check as an addi- My vision gets blurred the Reef – Every Act Counts.” Special tional tool to engage the general public My lungs crave for fresh air thanks to the celebrity art contest judg- through music. Reef Check Foundation My beauty is on the wane es, famed artists and conservation- launched an International Singing If you don’t bother soon ists, Wyland and Rogest, for taking Contest featuring the song, with the Nature will destroy us soon Lend an ear to my cries goal of engaging young people in learn- part. Congratulations to the winning Think smart and act wise Coral Reef Ambassadors from Belarus, ing more about coral reefs. Youth If you save me Canada, Columbia, Indonesia, the groups from American Samoa, Taiwan, I will save you back People’s Republic of China, the Columbia, Comoros, the Dominican We both will make our abode Philippines, Slovenia, the United Republic, Egypt, India, the Netherlands And make it a heaven under the sky! Kingdom, and the United States; their Antilles, and Trinidad and Tobago sub- * Winner of the best conservation poem on cor- al reefs amongst the work of both Andamans and Lakshadweep students [ 16 ] International year of the reef

mitted entries. Over 230 people from on coral bleaching and how coral colo- reefs through a public service announce- 30 countries, territories, and economies nies and coral reef ecosystems can resist ment (PSA) viewed on more than 100 voted for their favorite videos; the first and recover from bleaching stress. The websites. The PSA suggested three ac- place entry came from St. Nicholas DVD explores various environmen- tions individuals can take to aid conser- School in Trinidad and Tobago. Watch tal and ecological factors that affect a vation: reducing their carbon emissions, all the winning videos at http://www. coral reef ’s resilience to, or capacity to preventing daily runoff, and protecting reefcheck.org/video/video_contest.php. recover from, bleaching, and is a good habitats by refusing to purchase coral introduction to the subject. The DVD reef-related products. View it online at educational videos was used in training of marine park http://www.projectaware.org. rangers in many countries around the Coral Bleaching: Resistance and world, specifically in resilience train- inspiring examples Resilience Video ing workshops in Kenya, Tanzania, and The IUCN/ Coastal Oceans Research Madagascar, among others. The International Year of the Reef and Development in the Indian 2008 was celebrated around the world Ocean/IYOR 2008 Coral Reef Project Aware IYOR 2008 Public in a variety of ways, including the fol- Resilience DVD is an educational tool Service Announcement lowing inspiring examples. Expanded useful for reef managers, teachers, cor- Project AWARE Foundation, along reports for most of the countries, terri- al reef practitioners, or anyone who is with artist Wyland and Olympic gold tories and economies that participated interested in learning more about cor- medalist Heather Pease Olson, teamed in IYOR 2008 are available on the CD al reefs and climate change. It focuses up to personalize the plight of coral included with this publication. [ 17 ] North America and the Caribbean Region North America

mexico

To celebrate IYOR 2008, Telmex, the largest telecommunication company in Latin America, released three telephone cards with pictures of reefs on them. The cards were distributed widely throughout Mexico.

During 2008, IYOR 2008 played a significant role in the establishment of 11 nat- ural protected areas and was successful in raising awareness about coral reefs at the regional and national levels using many different media types, including tele- vision, radio, and press. Mexican telephone card. [ 18 ] International year of the reef U.S. action message poster (NFWF, NOAA, and SQN, Inc.).

united states the Commonwealth of for IYOR 2008. With of america the Northern Mariana the assistance of SQN, Islands, Guam, Hawai`i, Inc., a communications U.S. IYOR 2008 activities were primar- Puerto Rico, and the U.S. firm, the partners held ily conducted by the National Oceanic Virgin Islands. Activities a workshop and con- and Atmospheric Administration held in the U.S. territories ducted surveys in order (NOAA), specifically through the of American Samoa, the to develop five clear, ac-

SQN job no: 0705043 Client: NFWF Project: IYOR/NOAA Advertising Date: 18JAN08 Coral Reef Conservation Program and Commonwealth of the Stage: Final Option: A — Chemicals Finished size: 8.5 x 11 inches tion oriented messages National Ocean Service International Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, and for both general and regional audienc- Programs Office. NOAA played a key the U.S. Virgin Islands are presented in es. These messages were presented on role in support of IYOR 2008; the the Pacific and Caribbean regional sec- icons, posters, and merchandise that agency funded the international coor- tions of this document, respectively. were available for free download dur- dination of IYOR 2008 and also fund- ing IYOR 08. These messages were uti- ed a number of activities at national IYOR 2008 Creative lized in many ways. For instance, the and local levels. The National Fish and Wildlife 2008 Ocean Discovery Day, an annual Foundation (NFWF) collaborated event at the NOAA Galveston Lab, fo- IYOR 2008 activities were conduct- with NOAA and the U.S. Coral Reef cused on the coral reefs of the Flower ed throughout the U.S., including in Task Force (USCRTF) Education Garden Banks National Marine seven states and territories that con- and Outreach Working Group to de- Sanctuary and sharing the IYOR 2008 tain coral reefs: American Samoa, velop a unified messaging campaign action messages. The Year in Review [ 19 ]

IYOR 2008 U.S. Public Service 30-second television public service an- The 2008 Coral Reef Educational Announcements: Every Act Counts nouncements (PSAs). A PSA was cre- Resources CD NOAA, the National Fish and Wildlife ated for each of the five IYOR 2008 The 2008 Coral Reef Educational Foundation, the UrbanArts Institute Creative action messages, as well as a Resources CD is a collection of cor- at Massachusetts College of Art and general coral reef conservation PSA. al reef education and outreach materi- Design, and other marine and ocean The PSAs were broadcast on major U.S. als created by state and federal agencies conservation non-governmental orga- television stations, such as the Discovery as well as non-profit organizations that nizations (NGOs) supported the pro- Channel, as well as on several Websites are part of the Education and Outreach duction and distribution of a series of like http://www.iyor.org/tv. Working Group of the USCRTF. The materials cover a wide-range of top- ics related to coral reefs, including Main message for the U.S. IYOR 2008 messaging campaign: basic coral biology, coral reef ecosys- tems, human use, threats, and conserva- Whether you live one mile or one thousand miles from a coral reef, your tion efforts. For more information, visit actions affect the reef’s future and the reef’s future affects yours. As the http://coralreef.noaa.gov/education/ natural guardians of our shores, reefs play a vital role in our global ecosys- educators/resourcecd/welcome.html. tem. With climate change, pollution, and overfishing contributing to coral reef degradation, we can all play a role in protecting our land, sea, and sky. Reef Fest And all it takes is a few simple changes to your daily routine. Several night clubs in South Florida, Tennessee, and Texas [ 20 ] International year of the reef

hosted Reef Fest events to highlight canvas, to celebrate IYOR 2008 and Reef Identification Training threats to coral reefs and help raise to inspire action to preserve and pro- in Florida funds for their protection. Two clubs tect the world’s reefs. The power- The Florida Department of Envi- in South Florida held Reef Fest con- ful artwork features green sea turtles ronmental Protection’s Coral Reef certs every week. Additionally, larg- swimming along a vibrant Florida Conservation Program led 14 reef iden- er Reef Fest events were held in coral reef, along with a great ham- tification classes for the local south- Fort Worth, Texas and in Nashville, merhead shark and other reef crea- east Florida community on the topics Tennessee. In addition, concerts were tures. The artist considers it one of his of fish, coral, and marine invertebrate held for two consecutive evenings in best works to date and it has been uti- identification. The classes incorporated Fort Lauderdale, Florida coinciding lized with his permission in a num- the Professional Association of Diving with the 11th International Coral Reef ber of IYOR 2008 products. Wyland Instructors (PADI) Project Aware spe- Symposium. also dedicated two of his monu- cialty course. A total of 236 stakehold- mental Whaling Wall murals (Pago ers attended the classes in and around Official Artist of U.S. IYOR 2008: Pago, American Samoa, and North Miami, Florida, during each month of Wyland Lauderdale, Florida) to the beauty IYOR 2008. Renowned marine life artist and con- and diversity of coral reefs. At each servationist, Wyland, was asked to be event, children were invited to take Additionally, a special IYOR 2008 the official U.S. artist of IYOR 2008. part to create their own reef master- workshop was held for 50 teachers In that capacity, he created “Year of pieces and to learn about the issues from southeast Florida. These teach- the Reef ”, a seven-foot by four-foot facing these valuable ecosystems. ers were selected from over 90 appli- The Year in Review [ 21 ]

cants, based on the scope and scale of classroom and/or campus-wide coral reef education that they were imple- menting in celebration of IYOR 2008.

More than 96 percent of the teachers indicated that they were satisfied or very satisfied with the IYOR 2008 teacher training and they also indicated that the infor- mation and resources provided in the workshop would be shared with over 14,000 students annually.

The Hawai`i Campaign On January 25, 2008, Hawai`i kicked off IYOR 2008 at the Hawai`i State Capitol. Proclamations were made by Governor Linda Lingle, Mayor Mufi Hannemann (O`ahu), and Mayor Charmaine Tavares (Maui). More than 30 ocean-related organizations and 300 peo- ple—including schoolchildren and lawmakers and their staff—attended the launch. The highlight of the event was a moving keynote presentation by Nainoa Thompson, navigator of the Polynesian Voyaging

“IYOR Sunset on the Beach” event on Waikiki Beach. [ 22 ] International year of the reef

Society. This was the beginning of an first place at the Hawai`i Ocean Film IYOR 2008 Reef Night action-packed year. Festival in the “marine resources short” IYOR 2008 Reef Night was a major category. The creative production team community event held in June of 2008, The Hawai`i campaign worked with was led by Shooters Film Production drawing approximately 1,000 resi- numerous partners from government, and Montaj 9. Services were provid- dents and visitors to the Maui Ocean businesses, and non-profit organiza- ed pro-bono with additional support Center. tions and leveraged significant fund- from Malama Hawai`i, The Nature ing and in-kind resources to conduct a Conservancy, the Hawai`i Division Highlights of the event included an in- broad and far reaching statewide cam- of Aquatic Resources, the Hawai`i vasive species (ta`ape) cook-off, 20 ex- paign. The Hawai`i campaign reached Tourism Authority, and the generous hibits on coral reef ecosystems and every island in the Hawaiian chain, homeowner hosts in East Honolulu. management, a student poster contest, including the remote Ni`ihau. The live entertainment, and the “Pono… committee in Maui County worked The Hawai`i campaign will continue Do What Is Right!” fashion show. The especially hard to conduct an array of to keep its website active (http://www. Mayor’s IYOR 2008 task force, made activities engaging its mayor as a key givethereefabreak.org) for at least an- up of over 40 individuals representing proponent. other year so that the momentum built conservation agencies, businesses, and from the campaign leads to contin- non-profit organizations, collaborated The International Year of the Reef – ued learning and action to improve the to plan and facilitate the event. Hawai`i campaign’s public service an- health of precious coral reefs. nouncement, “Bad Neighbors” won The Year in Review [ 23 ]

Caribbean Region The United Nations Environmental bahamas Programme’s (UNEP) Regional Coordinating Unit for the Caribbean Weekly News Column on Coastal Environment Programme, through the Awareness – Week in Reefview sub-program for Specially Protected On February 7, 2008, the prime mi- Areas and Wildlife, invited coral reef nister of the Commonwealth of the managers and relevant organizations Bahamas, Hubert Ingraham, proclaimed from the Wider Caribbean Region the year 2008 as the International Year to attend an informal brainstorming of the Reef in the Bahamas. in preparation for the upcoming cel- ebration of IYOR 2008. The meeting During the IYOR 2008 campaign was held in Punta Cana, Dominican a featured column of TheBahamas Republic, November 10–11, 2007, Weekly.com, “Week In Reefview,” pro- immediately following the 60th Gulf vided weekly articles on how the key and Caribbean Fisheries Institute threats of climate change, habitat de- Symposium. The discussions and in- struction, invasive species, pollution, puts provided resulted in an “Outline and overfishing impact the coral reef of Activities for the IYOR 2008 ecosystem and gave possible solutions Campaign in the Wider Caribbean” to address these issues. Articles were [ ]. submitted by representatives of vari- [ 24 ] International year of the reef

ous partners including, but not lim- reefs. The exhibition was visited by lo- Stamp Design Contest ited to, the Bahamas Environment, cal schools and was extremely well re- A photo contest was launched in July Science & Technology, The Nature ceived. by the Conservation and Fisheries Conservancy, the Bahamas Reef Department and the BVI Post Office. Environment Educational Foundation, british virgin islands Entries were judged by Dr. Giorgio the Department of Marine Resources, Migliavacca of the BVI Philatelic Society. Grand Bahama Dive Association, and Marine Awareness Guide The winning photos were the first in a other independent authors with knowl- The “Marine Awareness Guide” is a BVI postal stamp series on “Protecting edge of coral reefs. magazine focused on educating visi- Our Environment, Safeguarding Our tors and locals about what they can do Future.” The first series highlighted cor- barbados to ensure the sustainability of natural al reefs and was launched in 2009. resources in the British Virgin Islands Art and Science Exhibition (BVI). The magazine was launched at jamaica Art inspired by coral reefs and oceano- a cocktail reception co-hosted by the graphic equipment used in the field was Ministry of Natural Resources and World Ocean Day Expo exhibited from February 25 through Labour and The Moorings Hotel and As a part the celebrations held for March 8, 2008 at the Central Bank of Restaurant. The magazine was distrib- National Environmental Awareness Barbados. At the exhibition talks were uted to all the charter yacht companies Week, June 1–7, 2008, the Ecosystems given on climate change, coral reefs of as well as schools and several hotels in Management Branch of the National Barbados, and management of coral the BVI. Environment and Planning Agency The Year in Review [ 25 ]

hosted a booth in celebration of World Ocean Day and IYOR 2008. Held June 5 on the lawns of the historical Devon House in Kingston, the Expo was well attended, primarily by local schools, with students ranging from kinder to tertiary level. The booth fea- tured a “touch tank” aquarium with a variety of marine life, including a man- grove prop root community with oys- ters and an assortment of fish, sting rays, sea stars, crabs, lobsters, sea ur- chins, sea cucumbers, sponges, and a sea squirt. The booth also displayed examples of different types coral skel- etons, turtle shells, and preserved ex- hibits of a nurse shark and lionfish. Printed material was available for pe- rusal, along with pamphlets remind- ing guests that everyone can play a part National Environment Awareness Week Expo, Kingston, Jamaica. [ 26 ] International year of the reef

in saving the ocean. During the course with exciting activities, interesting tel of “International Year of the Reef of the day, a short television inter- seminars, prizes, and giveaways, the Week,” and other Bonaire locations. view and a 15-minute radio broadcast program for “International Year of were conducted, highlighting World the Reef Week,” part of Bonaire Dive puerto rico Ocean Day and IYOR 2008 and call- Into Summer 2008, was adventure- ing for a concerted local effort to pro- filled and ideal for those looking to add To celebrate IYOR 2008 and dis- tect Jamaica’s ocean and reefs. Stickers, an educational element to their vaca- seminate the current status of reefs drawstring tote bags, and water bot- tion. Each day offered visitors the flex- and reef research in Puerto Rico, tles, each printed with the message: ibility to enjoy their planned vacation the Caribbean Coral Reef Institute “Protect our ocean, save our reefs,” on the island, and, as an added bonus, (CCRI) sponsored the “2008 End were given away as souvenirs to booth the option to take part in interactive of the International Year of the Reef visitors. dives and seminars. As a highlight of Symposium” on December 3, 2008. the program, The Coral Reef Alliance’s The Symposium was held in San Juan netherlands antilles Program Manager, Bryan Dias, and on the campus of the University of EarthEcho International’s co-found- Puerto Rico (UPR) and was com- Bonaire International Year of the ers, Janice and Alexandra Cousteau, prised of 16 presentations covering a Reef Week led specialized dives and conservation- broad spectrum of topics, including From June 21–28, 2008, a week-long related seminars throughout the week. land-based impacts to Puerto Rico’s event to celebrate IYOR 2008 took Activities were held at Sand Dollar reefs; the deteriorating status of coral place on the island of Bonaire. Filled Condominium Resort, the host ho- reefs, especially following the continu- The Year in Review [ 27 ]

ing impacts of the 2005 bleaching/ and five NGOs. The event also includ- ed on the local news channel, Diaher disease event; new techniques for map- ed a series of radio interviews featuring Broadcasting Service. ping fish spawning aggregations and CCRI and symposium participants. reefs; and basic reef ecology. A spe- trinidad and tobago cial session on mesophotic reefs, those saint lucia from 30–100 meters depth, includ- From September to December 2008, ed five talks focused on the structure On July 9, 2008, an open-house ex- a library display was assembled for the of mesophotic reefs and their fish and hibition was held at the Soufriere commemoration of IYOR 2008 at the invertebrate communities. Presenters Fishermen’s Cooperative Complex Institute of Marine Affairs. The - pur at the symposium included scientists and launched with an official ceremo- pose of the display was to provide gen- from NOAA, and representatives ny to educate the public on the value, eral information on coral reefs and from other agencies and institutions importance, and threats to the sus- their inhabitants; information on the such as the Puerto Rico Department of tainability of coral reefs. In addition economic and other values of local cor- Natural and Environmental Resources to the Soufriere Marine Management al reefs was also included. (PR DNER), UPR, and the U.S. Area booth, information was avail- Environmental Protection Agency. able about the Piton Management “Counting Costs: Communities, Over 70 individuals attended the Area Heritage site. The Department Coral Reefs, Climate Change” event, including university research- of Fisheries presented information The Buccoo Reef Trust’s (BRT) sympo- ers and students, PR DNER, and rep- and artifacts on a variety of marine sium, “Counting Costs: Communities, resentatives from five federal agencies life. The event was also highlight- Coral Reefs, Climate Change,” was held [ 28 ] International year of the reef

to commemorate IYOR 2008. Guests day was an enormous success and hope- that incorporated the use of literature were invited from local government and fully will encourage others to do their and the creation of educational pro- NGOs along with students and teachers parts to help the marine environment. grams for coral reefs and their associ- from Tobago’s schools. The Minister of ated systems, such as mangroves and Housing, Planning and Environment, turks and caicos seagrass beds. An underwater cleanup Dr. Emily Gaynor Dick-Forde, attend- was held in April for Earth Day, and a ed to give the main address. BRT start- The Ministry of Natural Resources, delegation from the Ministry partici- ed the event with the launch of their Fisheries and the Environment de- pated in the event as divers. new video on climate change, “Islands clared 2008 as the Year of the Coral on the Edge.” This was followed by Ms. Reef under the theme: “Achieving the u.s. virgin islands Lauretta Burke, of the World Resource Right Balance: Protecting Our Reefs - Institute, presenting findings from Prosperity for Our Future.” This decla- A grassroots effort to raise local funds three years’ of work on the economic ration brought attention to one of the for coral reef education yielded the valuation of the coral reefs of Tobago. territory‘s most prized assets: the cor- first annual St. Croix Reef Jam, held Coral Cay Conservation gave an up- al reef. An official launching ceremo- on Sunday, May 25, 2008 at Rainbow date on the Tobago Coastal Ecosystem ny was held on February 8, 2008, in Beach in Frederiksted. Popular lo- Mapping Project, which was warmly re- Providenciales. The Ministry of Natural cal musician Kurt Schindler and his ceived by those present and followed by Resources conducted a number of activ- wife, Janelle, spearheaded the all-day many questions about the progress of ities in celebration of the IYOR 2008, Reef Jam event, which drew more than the project and how to get involved. The including a public awareness campaign 1,000 attendees and raised over $7,000 The Year in Review [ 29 ]

(U.S. Dollars) in funds to be used for film festival, and educational signs. In a “Reef Responsible” certification pro- conjunction with Earth Day, the U.S. cess, coral PSAs, and community snor- Environmental Protection Agency pre- kel clinics on the island of St. Croix. sented Environmental Quality Awards Reef Jam included underwater photog- to representatives from three projects raphy contests, an activity corner, live across the U.S. Virgin Islands for their music, guest speakers, raffles, t-shirt efforts to protect the environment. sales, and more. As a result of the suc- The “Environmental Education” award cess of Reef Jam 2008, Reef Jam will was given to the International Year continue as an annual Memorial Day of the Reef 2008 St. Croix Planning Karlyn Langjahr and the St. Croix IYOR Committee worked to expose underserved USVI youth to the marine weekend event on St. Croix. In addi- Committee, a local grassroots group environment during IYOR 2008. tion, Reef Jam was expanded to include that was formed to raise community events on the islands of St. John and St. awareness about the importance and local fishery regulations and encour- Thomas in 2009. St. Thomas also be- fragility of coral reefs. In 2008, the aged listeners to leave marine resourc- gan planning for a territory-wide so- group held 17 community events to es—coral, sand, shells and animals—in cial marketing campaign, “The Reef is promote coral reef awareness and stew- their natural habitats. Closer Than You Think Community ardship to over 1,500 residents. The Campaign,” which was implement- group’s media outreach led to 13 local ed in 2009. The campaign employed newspaper articles and produced two tools such as PSAs, murals, an ocean PSAs that provided information about [ 30 ] Central and South America

Central America

belize

Reef Rally: A Rapid Assessment of Belize’s Marine Life

The “Reef Rally: A Rapid Assessment of Belize’s Honorable Prime Minister Dean Barrow and the Marine Life” was established in conjunction “Little Mini Universe” pageant winner of the Caribbean and Central America. with IYOR 2008 in efforts to capture and re- cord unique marine life sightings in Belize, including marine cetaceans, reptiles, vertebrates, and invertebrates. This long-term project was established to act as a repository for reports of unique marine life sightings that had previously gone un- reported. Targeted groups included visiting divers and snorkelers, tour operators and guides, and local artisanal fishermen. The Year in Review [ 31 ]

The International Year of the Reef followed by a reef gala attended by sev- ings to send to different governmental Symposium, held at the Radisson en ministers, in addition to the Prime institutions, indicating their percep- Fort George Hotel and Marina on Minister. tions, desires, and hopes about the November 14, 2008, highlighted local importance of protecting the marine and international reef related conser- costa rica environment. This mural is the first vation efforts achieved during IYOR mural created as part of Hiller’s na- 2008. The World Resources Institute Carlos Hiller Community Mural tional campaign to encourage Costa launched their final findings on the On June 8, 2008, a community mu- Rican towns to simultaneously ed- economic valuation of the reef and ral was created at Playas del Coco, ucate and raise awareness about the mangrove system for Belize, which in- Guanacaste by marine artist Carlos importance of protecting marine re- cluded the fact that reef-related ac- Hiller. In celebration of IYOR 2008, sources. Hundreds of children and tivities generated between $350–500 the theme of the mural million (U.S. Dollars) in 2007. The was coral reefs. During Healthy Reefs Initiative also launched the creation of the mu- an ecological health report card for the ral, more than 70 local Mesoamerican Reef (MAR) and the children painted the Belize Barrier Reef System. Only six outlines of marine life percent of the MAR received a grade around the coral reefs. of “good” while 47 percent received a They also wrote let- “poor” grading. The symposium was ters and created draw- Public mural painting by Hiller, Playas del Coco, Costa Rica. [ 32 ] International year of the reef

parents attending this event also uni- Brazilian Coral Reef Exhibition of a “Colombian National Day of fied to clean the beaches, build sand The Brazilian Coral Reef Exhibition the Reef ” to be held annually on sculptures, and experience boat rides. was an itinerant exhibit composed of December 5. To celebrate the first 14 posters describing Brazilian coral Colombian National Day of the Reef, reefs and associated ecosystems—such the technical committee for coral reefs, South America as mangroves; national activities, such which included non-governmental or- as coral reef research and monitoring ganizations, members of academia, brazil and conservation and awareness cam- and government agencies, joined paigns; and a map showing important many groups of divers for a dive to en- In April 2008 at the coral reefs sites. The exhibition traveled joy the coral reefs of the National Park Brazilian Chamber to 16 locations on the Brazilian coast Corales del Rosario. The purpose of the of Deputies, the and was visited by many students and Colombian National Day of the Reef is launch of the Bra- tourists. to raise awareness about the social re- zilian IYOR 2008 sponsibility to protect coral reefs for served as an oppor- colombia future generations. tunity to discuss the creation of a Brazil- Coral Reef Day ian Coral Reef Ini- In October 2008, the Ministry of Zumbi dos Palmares/ tiative with the gov- Environment, Housing and Territorial Maceio International Airport at Alagos State, Brazil. ernment. Development announced the creation [ 33 ] Asia and the Pacific Region

Asia

The South Asia Coral Reef Task Force, established in July 2007 to address the growing concerns of coral reef conservation in the South Asian Seas re- gion, launched a commemorative First Day Cover Stamp to celebrate IYOR 2008 on November 25, 2008. The launch was held at the auditori- um of the Postal Headquarters in Colombo, Sri Lanka and was attended by the Hon. Minister Mr. Mahinda Wijesekara, Minister of Posts and Telecommunication, Ministry of Posts and Telecommunication, Government of Sri Lanka. [ 34 ] International year of the reef

india

Gulf of Mannar Under funding from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Coral Reef Unit and facilitated by the International Coral Reef Action Network (ICRAN), the Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute conducted IYOR 2008 activities in the Gulf of Mannar reef region of south- eastern India. This work was completed in associa- tion with the Tuticorin District Administration, Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve Trust, Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, the Coastal Oceans Research and Development in the Indian Ocean, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Activities included a television media cam- paign, radio broadcasts, community education in five villages, printing and distribution of 10,000 posters, and the production of a documentary on the value and importance of coral reefs. IYOR awareness activities held at Minicoy, Lakshadweep Islands (India). The Year in Review [ 35 ]

Andaman Island the training, the teachers and volun- ly relevant activity of the DKP is The Children’s Perception of the teers demonstrated their new skills and the Coral Reef Rehabilitation and Environment project was carried out reef knowledge by leading field activi- Management Program (COREMAP) between April and November 2008 as ties for 150 children from four schools. II. COREMAP II is the second phase part of the IYOR 2008 activities. The The field activities included a boat trip, of a 15-year national conservation concept and activities were developed snorkeling, and interviews with fish- program operating in eight provinc- by the Centre for Action Research ermen and elders from the local com- es and 15 districts. The program is on Environment Science and Society munity. Awareness exhibits were also funded by the Asian Development (CARESS) to address the need for a displayed during the workshops, and Bank, the World Bank, the Global communications and outreach pro- the children had an opportunity to cre- Environmental Facility, and the gram in coral reef areas. An environ- ate their own awareness posters. Indonesian government. The main mental education toolkit for educators purpose of COREMAP II is to protect in South Asia, developed by CARESS/ indonesia coral reefs through the reduction of IUCN South Asia, was tested out dur- dependency on the reef ecosystem by ing a series of workshops for teach- The Ministry of Marine Affairs and creating alternative sources of income, ers. A total of 16 teachers from four Fisheries (Departemen Kelautan increasing public awareness of the im- schools and 16 volunteers from five dan Perikanan, DKP) has over- portance of coral reefs, and strength- organizations were trained to carry all responsibility to protect, con- ening capacity. Thus, COREMAP II out awareness activities for coral reefs serve, and develop the Indonesian was in charge of IYOR 2008 activities and associated ecosystems. Following nation’s marine resources. One high- in Indonesia. COREMAP II coordi- [ 36 ] International year of the reef

nated with the organizing committee japan Japan and to launch an ICRI region- of DEEP Indonesia 2008, Indonesia’s al strategy for an east-asian MPA net- international diving, adventure trav- Japan was very active in IYOR 2008 work. el and water sports exhibition, to allo- with the creation of a Japanese IYOR cate a time in the opening ceremony for 2008 national committee that planned Another very successful IYOR 2008 ac- the launching of IYOR 2008 Indonesia many activities all year long. One of the tivity was the organization of a contest by the Minister for Marine Affairs and main events was the “IYOR 2008 Coral for the “mascots” of the Japanese cam- Fisheries. In addition to participation Reef Festival”, held in Tokyo on June 22, paign. More than 2,000 entries were in DEEP 2008, COREMAP II’s public 2008. The festival raised awareness of submitted for the names and designs campaign in 2008 included a national coral reef conservation through a sympo- of one primary and six secondary mas- level high school “Q&A” quiz, nation- sium, a concert, and hands-on programs cots, and the results were announced al youth reef ambassadors, drawing and provided by non-governmental organi- during an event on March 2, 2008, in coloring competition for children, a zations (NGOs). The festival was attend- Tokyo. Winners ranged from the ag- reef-themed song composing compe- ed by more than 1,200 participants. es of seven to 76. The winning mascot, tition, a journalist traveling sem- Shota (reef boy) is pictured. inar and writing competition, The Ministry of the a second national conference Environment of Japan took the The Sango Map Project on coral reefs, and a range of IYOR 2008 as an opportuni- The Sango (Coral) Map Project, a activities at COREMAP II ty to launch the development of an web-based system to gather informa- district villages and centers. action plan to conserve coral reefs in tion on coral occurrence from various The Year in Review [ 37 ]

Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment Secretary General (Malaysia). stakeholders (snorkelers, divers, envi- Environment, serving as a “patron” for ronmental educators, researchers, etc.) the national campaign and Ms. Maya was also launched during IYOR 2008. Karin, a well renowned actress, serv- The data will be used to validate cor- ing as an ambassador. The national al distribution maps prepared by the campaign was launched in February at Ministry of the Environment. This One Utama New Wing Mall with re- project was a great success in Japan and marks from the Minister of Natural encouraged collaboration between var- Resources and Environment. ious stakeholders for coral reef conser- vation. It also served to motivate the Coral Reef Camp public to participate in other monitor- The Department of Marine Park ing programs such as ReefCheck and Malaysia (DMPM), together with As part of the Malaysian Government’s initia- CoralWatch. Reef Check Malaysia and the United tive for the International Year of the Reef 2008, Nations Development Programme, we will try to develop the children’s knowledge

malaysia organized a Coral Reef Camp, which on island ecosystems and the importance of involved schoolchildren from the is- conservation for marine biodiversity. This will Malaysia created a national IYOR land of Pulau Tioman, Pahang. This definitely help to improve the state of our un- 2008 committee with Y.Bhg. Datin camp is the first phase of a larger, sus- derwater heritage in the long run. Seri Normala Shamsuddin, the wife of tainable program entitled “Rainforest —Encik Ab Rahim Bin Gor Yaman, Head of the the Minister of Natural Resources and to Reef ” School Programme, target- Corporate Planning Section of DMPM. [ 38 ] International year of the reef

ed specifically to island schoolchildren. nizations active in marine conservation ecosystems in Singapore, During the camp, the children were that came together in recent years as the challenges and oppor- taught about the importance of coral the Marine Round Table. Two consul- tunities that lie ahead, and reefs and marine life and the functions tative sessions were held, one in 2006 recommendations for its con- of the DMPM through interactive and and the other in 2007. This Marine tinued conservation. The Blue Plan hands-on activities such as arts and Round Table formed the IYOR 2008 was a result of collaborations, con- crafts, surveys, role playing, and snor- Singapore Organizing Committee, an sultations, and negotiations between keling. Parents of the children involved open and inclusive Committee serv- members of the marine conservation were also invited to the closing night of ing only to initiate and coordinate ac- community, civil society, and leading the camp for a prize-giving ceremony; tivities. On August 9, 2008, Singapore academic and research institutions in they were pleasantly surprised to find launched the International Year of the Singapore. The Blue Plan will also be that the program headmaster also par- Reef 2008 during a day of celebration. used by the marine conservation com- ticipated in the camp. Plans to replicate munity to plan and monitor its strate- the camp at four primary schools from Blue Plan 2008 gies over the next five years. other islands are underway. IYOR 2008 Singapore produced the “Blue Plan 2008,” and presented to the taiwan singapore Government of Singapore for consid- eration and implementation. The Blue The week from April 28 to May 3 was IYOR 2008 Singapore was initiated by Plan is a document with a comprehen- designated the “Week of Coral Reef a diverse group of individuals and orga- sive overview of the state of coral reef Conservation” in Taiwan, jointly or- The Year in Review [ 39 ]

ganized by the Taiwanese Coral Reef were presented to the Department of 13–14, 2008 was also an occasion to Society, the Chinese Underwater Marine and Coastal Resources. promote coral reef awareness. During Photographers Association, and the cleanup, more than 4.5 tons of gar- Kenting National Park. Activities in- The second Green Fins International bage were collected by 760 volunteers. volved the announcement of Tiaoshi, Coastal Cleanup, held on September a new marine protected area (MPA), a conference on coral reef conservation, beach clean-ups, and real-time image broadcasting of coral spawning.

thailand

In May 2008, a seminar on coral reef research and management was orga- nized to celebrate IYOR 2008 at the Phuket Marine Biological Center. A total of 110 participants from gov- ernment and NGOs joined the meet- ing. The conclusions of the workshop

COTS collecting day new Phuket Island, Thailand. [ 40 ] International year of the reef

Pacific Region in September 2007. The PYOR08 cam- paign was launched on February 28, In the Pacific region, the Pacific Regional 2008, in Port Vila, Vanuatu, and closed Environment Programme (SPREP) led on December, 17, 2008, at the SPREP a regional campaign for the Pacific: the office in Apia, Samoa. Pacific Year of the Reef (PYOR08). A detailed plan for the PYOR08 campaign The most tangible and enduring result was developed which included the goal, of the regional campaign were activ- objectives, themes, messages, slogan, ities implemented by the ten partici- and activities of the campaign [ ]. The pating teams in Phase 2 of the regional plan was endorsed by the 18th meet- “challengecoralreef ” competition for ing of the SPREP Governing Council 13–18 year old youth [ ]. Funds were The Year in Review [ 41 ] Wyland’s murals at the Executive Office Building in Utulei (American Samoa).

provided to teams of secondary school students in the Cook Islands [ ], Fiji, Kiribati, New Caledonia (2), Samoa, Solomon Islands (3 [ ]), Vanuatu, and Wallis and Futuna to implement activities that the teams designed to help save a reef. Their chosen plans of action in- cluded community consultation and educational visits, shore clean- ups, construction of signage at marine managed areas, development of an underwater trail for swimmers and divers, improvement of waste disposal practices in communities and at well-used beaches, coral res- toration, and mangrove planting.

Another important achievement of the PYOR08 campaign was the consolidation of an existing network of national SPREP environmen- tal and marine education contacts who enthusiastically worked on their national campaigns. The Coral Reef Initiatives for the Pacific (CRISP) program funded the campaigns and provided opportuni- ties for presentation of results of the Pacific campaigns at interna- tional fora such as the 11th International Coral Reef Symposium, 2nd International Pacific Marine Educators Network Conference, 2nd International Youth Coastal Conference, and the IUCN World Conservation Congress. [ 42 ] International year of the reef

american samoa educational activities. The Coral Reef diversity and the event included a fo- Advisory Group collaborated closely rum entitled “The Great Barrier Reef Wyland Community Mural with the Department of Education, the in 2050” in honor of IYOR 2008. As part of the IYOR 2008 cele- American Samoa Community College, bration and as a result of an invita- and private schools to make sure that Graduation Pack Featuring IYOR tion that was extended by Governor the childrens’ activities were both fun 2008 Togiola Tulafono, the world-renowned and educational. Several schools in Australia decided to ocean and wildlife artist and mural- offer to students a graduation pack fea- ist, Wyland, painted a marine life mu- australia turing IYOR 2008 and a list of things ral at the Executive Office Building their graduates can do to save cor- in Utulei. Wyland’s murals provide a Science Meets Parliament al reefs. The packs were comprised of lasting message of the importance to “Science Meets Parliament” is an an- IYOR 2008 information as well as a conserve and protect our oceans and nual event allowing the science com- marine life. Children were not on- munity to engage with Australian ly able to observe the world famous Commonwealth Ministers, parliamen- painter up close, but they and their art tarians, and their staff on current sci- teachers were also able to work side-by- ence issues. In March 2008, the theme side with him on their very own mural of “Science Meets Parliament” was bio-

projects, as well as participate in a va- Puppet Show troupe educates community about coral reef conservation through a unique puppet show riety of other environmentally themed performance on Rota and Saipan in CNMI. The Year in Review [ 43 ]

class/group photo and a personalized islands of Rota and Saipan, installation sorts, dive operations, youth groups, graduation certificate. of educational signage in MPAs, cook- village groups, NGOs, institutions, ing contests featuring reef fish recipes and individuals. A total of 277 fish commonwealth of and education on sustainable fishing, counts conducted by over 200 peo- the northern mariana and an IYOR 2008/Earth Day harbor ple in ten regional sites documented islands cleanup. hundreds of butterflyfish, including all 27 species known to exist in Fiji. The On January 18, 2008, the Common- fiji Coral Reef Alliance was a major spon- wealth of the Northern Mariana sor of this event. Another “Great Fiji Islands (CNMI) kicked off the IYOR The Great Fiji Butterflyfish Count Butterflyfish Count” was conducted in 2008 with Governor Fitial proclaim- From November 2–8, 2008, the “Great October 2009. ing 2008 as the Year of the Reef. This Fiji Butterflyfish Count” was conduct- was the beginning of an action-packed ed to identify and count butterfly fish, guam year with events conducted nearly ev- an important reef herbivore, in all ery month [ ]. Activities in CNMI the regions of Fiji. Volunteers used a The Guam Year of the Reef Education included, among others, the creation of “Great Fiji Butterflyish Count” water- and Outreach Campaign was a multi- a reef food web poster that has been re- proof slate with the IYOR 2008 logo media campaign that included a vari- printed by the National Oceanic and on it as they conducted their counts. ety of resources and activities to engage Atmospheric Administration, educa- The event received overwhelming sup- the residents of Guam in the celebra- tional coral reef puppet shows on the port and participation from various re- tion of IYOR 2008. On February 1, [ 44 ] International year of the reef

2008, the Governor of Guam signed palau roundings. Classroom activities en- a proclamation [ ] declaring 2008 couraged awareness of the value of as International Year of the Reef for In April 2008, Tommy E. Remengesau coral reefs, and helped students devel- Guam. The proclamation recognized Jr., president of the Republic of Palau, op skills in drawing conclusions about that Pacific Islanders have relied on proclaimed 2008 as the Palau Year of actions that may result in negative im- coral reef ecosystems for food, protec- the Reef [ ]. pacts to coral reefs. tion from storms, and economic activi- ty for hundreds of years. The theme for Two major student activities were held tonga the year was “Our reefs, our future.” to celebrate IYOR 2008. The first activ- ity, the Coral Reef Exploration Student The Coral Reef Awareness Day aimed Public Service Announcement Training, was held for 6th–8th grade at providing education and awareness Contest students from June 23–July 4, 2008. for the children and parents in Vava’u, Members of the community were in- The second activity, the Upward Bound Kingdom of Tonga. Four divers con- vited to create their very own Public Math & Science event, was held for ducted coral health surveys and these Service Announcement about cor- 9th–12th grade students from June surveys were followed by a children’s al reefs for the Guam Year of the Reef. 9–July 7. Through interdisciplinary, event that was attended by 27 kids Over 30 entries were received and hun- hands-on learning, the students were ranging from 5–13 years old. It includ- dreds of people visited the website to given the opportunity to develop ed the screening of the movie, “Coral view and vote for their favorites: http:// knowledge and understanding of the Reef Adventure,” as well as some color- www.guamiyor08.com/vote.html. complexity of coral reefs and their sur- ing activities. [ 45 ] Middle East

The United Nations Environmental saudi arabia Programme (UNEP) Coral Reef Unit presented and chaired a very produc- Marine Litter Program tive IYOR 2008 side event held at the On September 7, 2008, the Regional 9th Global Meeting of the Regional Organization for the Conservation of Seas Conventions and Action Plans in the Environment of the Red Sea and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The event pro- Gulf of Aden (PERSGA) used a clean- vided information on IYOR 2008 up event to spread the word about and stressed that coral reefs are highly IYOR 2008. Desert-Sea-Divers, a lo- valuable as they provide food, income, cal diving center in Jeddah, organized and jobs for half a billion people and the event in collaboration with the are worth more than $29 billion (U.S. Professional Association of Diving Dollars). The purpose of the event was Instructors’ Project AWARE. to encourage Regional Seas communi- ties to become engaged and involved in PERSGA participated in this event the IYOR 2008. through its “Regional Marine Litter [ 46 ] International year of the reef

Programme” and added a monitoring united arab emirates time legacy. Through wide distribution dimension to this cleanup campaign; of the Blue Scarf in schools in Dubai, the collected debris were sorted and The Emirates Diving Association to EDA partner corporations, and to quantified. Fifty dedicated volunteer (EDA), with technical guidance and over 1,000 EDA members, the cam- divers, each of whom made three dives support from the International Coral paign aimed to raise awareness of inter- to clean three dive sites, participated Reef Action Network, undertook sev- national and regional efforts to support in this event. During the opening cer- eral activities throughout the United coral reefs. emony, PERSGA staff distributed the Arab Emirates (UAE) to raise aware- IYOR 2008 brochure to all the partic- ness of IYOR 2008. At the Dive The campaign was very successful, ipants. Middle East Exhibition, held on 11th– and met its goal to provide more than 15th March, EDA distributed several 5,000 students and professionals with informative materials in Arabic about the “blue scarf ” package, comprised coral reefs [ ]. of one scarf and some educational ma- terial and stickers. Proceeds generat- The Blue Scarf Campaign ed through the “Blue Scarf ” campaign The Blue Scarf Campaign is a Dubai- support EDA’s Coral Reef Awareness based program to support IYOR 2008. and Monitoring Programme in the Blue scarves were distributed as a sym- UAE. bol of the UAE’s environmental pride and preservation of the country’s mari- PERSGA clean-up campaign. The Year in Review [ 47 ]

Europe An educational comic book was also tal conditions. The central theme of produced and a total of approximate- the exhibition was a demonstration of ly 7,000 copies were distributed to the the threats posed by climate change to france French overseas territories. coral reef diversity. The exhibition was shown in Berlin from April–December The French Initiative for Coral Reef Several IYOR 2008 activities were al- 2008, and was later shown in Munich (Initiative Française pour les Recifs so held in the French overseas territo- and Stuttgart. Coralliens) was in charge of the na- ries that contain coral reefs: Éparses tional campaign. Two major exhibi- Island, French Polynesia, Guadeloupe, tions were held in 2008. One was held Martinique, Mayotte, New Caledonia, in Paris, at the Aquarium of Porte Réunion, and Wallis and Futuna. Dorée. It was entitled: “Les récifs coralliens de la France d’Outre-mer” germany (Coral reefs in French overseas terri- tories), and was visited by more than A special exhibition developed at the 60,000 people. The second exhibi- Museum für Naturkunde in Berlin tion, held in Brest at the Océanopolis showed past and present reef systems Aquarium, was entitled: “Chaud les and conveyed recent knowledge on coraux” and was viewed by 200,000 the origin, evolution, and threats to visitors [ ]. reefs, as well as causative environmen- [ 48 ] International year of the reef

united kingdom er summarizing these events [ ] and youths in and around the London and activities was produced and displayed, Essex area. More than 1,400 pupils Reef Conservation UK, a partnership with organizations involved with IYOR from 27 schools took part in environ- of several marine conservation organi- 2008 supplying hard copies of a range mental awareness workshops. This was zations in the United Kingdom (UK), of examples of awareness-raising mate- followed by an intensive two-day “ex- led an IYOR 2008 campaign. The 11th rials created during the year. pedition training course” for 50 pu- Reef Conservation UK Meeting assem- pils, 20 of whom were selected to join a bled a very interesting program to il- IYOR 2008 activities were also conduct- four-week CCC expedition. lustrate the impressive array of coral ed in the UK territories of Turks and reef interests and activities undertaken Caicos and the British Virgin Islands. Rockin’ Reef Weekend by UK researchers and organizations Features on these territories are in- The “Rockin’ Reef Weekend” was held around the world. There were over 20 cluded in the “North America and the in Scotland during April 2008 and was presentations addressing a range of re- Caribbean” section of this document. organized by Deep Sea World. It was a search topics. To commemorate the end weekend packed full with great reef of a successful IYOR 2008, a summary CCC Coral Reef Conservation games and presentations about the im- talk was given by Dr. Simon Harding, Scholarship Programme portance of coral reefs and how people of Coral Cay Conservation (CCC), re- The Jack Petchey Foundation found- can all work to conserve them. porting on the IYOR 2008 activities ed the CCC Coral Reef Conservation held in the UK or implemented by UK- Scholarship Programme. The scholar- based organizations overseas. A post- ship was targeted at underprivileged [ 49 ] Africa

Ten African nations of the Western tablished the Coral Reef Task Force Indian Ocean (WIO; Comoros, Kenya, (CRTF). The CRTF organized a re- Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, gional workshop in Zanzibar, Tanzania, Reunion, Seychelles, Somalia, South to develop a Coral Reef Action Africa, and Tanzania, ) are signatories Strategy: “Strengthening Capacity for to the Convention for the Protection, the Sustainable Management of Coral Management, and Development of the Reefs in the Western Indian Ocean: A Marine and Coastal Environment of Regional Coral Reef Action Strategy.” the Eastern African Region (Nairobi Convention). In response to the in- comoros creasing pressures on marine and coast- al ecosystems in the WIO and the Camp for Young Environmental importance of coral reefs and associ- Leaders ated ecosystems to the livelihoods and A week-long environmental camp for economies of the WIO, the 3rd Nairobi young environmental leaders was held on Convention Conference of Parties es- Grande Comore. Participants learned [ 50 ] International year of the reef

about marine ecosystems, particularly djibouti a makeover to become more attractive coral reefs, and went snorkeling for the and informative. IYOR 2008 was uti- first time in their lives. Like the major- In celebration of the IYOR 2008, lized as the occasion to improve the ity of Comorian youth, they had never the Regional Organization for the visitor center by bringing a number of seen below the waves. From this camp, Conservation of the Environment informative posters about mangrove, a branch of “Junior Ecoguards” was es- of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden seagrass, and coral reef ecosystems, tablished on Grande Comore; they will (PERSGA) organized a coral reef sur- fossil reefs, and the threats to existing work with Community Centred Con- vey in Djibouti from April 21–March reefs. A new section about the fauna of servation on future awareness-raising 4, 2008. At this occasion, PERSGA Nabq was also added to the center. activities. raised awareness about coral reefs to several governmental officials and to south africa the diving industry sector. The United Nations Environmental egypt Programme’s Coral Reef Unit sup- ported the printing and dissemination Nabq Visitor Center of an 80-page, “Underwater Reefs– The visitor center in the Nabq Managed Educator’s Guide”, produced by the Resource Protected Area, an impor- Sea World Education Centre of the tant tool for public awareness, needed South African Association for Marine

Junior Ecoguard – Young Environmental Leaders’ Marine adventure camp in Mitsamiouli, Grande Comore, August 2008. The Year in Review [ 51 ]

Biological Research (SAAMBR). The impact of these products is consid- a Crown-of-Thorn Starfish collection Copies of this guide have been distrib- erable as Sea World and the Sea World day on three reefs around Zanzibar on uted to 82 schools and education cen- Education Centre receive 600,000 and June 1, 2008. Many organizers, volun- ters in South Africa. 100,000 visitors, respectively, per year. teers, and representatives from relevant authorities, as well as local media, par- The Oceanographic Research Institute tanzania ticipated in the event, which resulted of SAAMBR and the Sea World in more than 700 crown-of-thorn star- Education Centre further coordinated To help plan for IYOR 2008 events in fish being removed from the reefs. SAAMBR’s IYOR 2008 activities with the Zanzibar archipelago a working the educational program of the na- committee was established with mem- It is important to note that the working ture conservation authority, Ezemvelo bers from the Institute of Marine committee continued regular meetings KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife. Ezemvelo Sciences, Western Indian Ocean Marine after the conclusion of IYOR 2008, KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife provides in- Science Association, Chumbe Island both to finalize some of the activities formation and posters on coral reefs Coral Park, Department of Fisheries, and to continue the awareness-raising in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Sea One Ocean Divers, Bahari Divers, the work begun in the region during IYOR World Education at the uShaka Marine Community Development and Envi- 2008. Park in Durban runs similar education- ronmental Conservation of Zanzibar, al programs for all sectors of society, the Commission for Tourism, and the providing information on marine con- Ministry of Education. One of the main servation in general. events organized by the committee was [ 52 ] Cold-Water Corals

The International Year of the Reef 2008 not only addressed tropical coral reefs, but also associated ecosystems, such as mangroves and cold-water corals. Cold- water corals, also called “deep-sea” or “deep-water” corals, are a taxonomically and morphologically diverse collection of organisms distinguished by their oc- currence in deeper or colder oceanic waters. Such corals lack symbiotic algae (zo- oxanthellae) characteristic of most reef-building shallow water tropical corals, and generally grow much more slowly than tropical corals. The calcified skeletons of some branching stony coral species can form large reefs in deep water, whereas others occur either singly or in tree-like thickets (“coral gardens”). Both reefs and gardens provide habitats for many fishes and invertebrates and enhance the bio- Rockfish take refuge among deep-sea octocoral of logical diversity of many deepwater ecosystems, similar to tropical coral reefs. the Primnoidae family in the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary. Cold-water coral assemblages are particularly vulnerable to damage from bot- tom trawling; thus most recent conservation efforts have focused on prevent- ing fisheries damage. These unique communities may also be damaged by energy The Year in Review [ 53 ]

exploration and development, deploy- als and IYOR 2008 was held in deep sea coral ment of submarine cables and pipe- Brest, France, in conjunction with symposium lines, and changes in water chemistry the annual meeting of the Oslo/Paris (e.g. ocean acidification due to climate Convention for the Protection of the In addition to supporting sever- change). Recovery may take decades Marine Environment of the North- al IYOR 2008 activities on tropical to centuries as most cold-water corals east Atlantic (OSPAR). The event was reefs in the Caribbean, East Africa, grow slowly. In recent years there has co-organized by the government of and South Asia, UNEP also support- been a rapidly increasing awareness France, the World Wildlife Fund, and ed IYOR 2008 activities with respect of, research on, and action to protect, the United Nations Environmental to coldwater corals. In order to en- these vulnerable cold-water counter- Programme (UNEP), with presenta- courage and build cold-water coral parts to tropical coral reefs. Activities tions on ICRI/IYOR 2008, cold-wa- expertise and capacity in developing to raise awareness for the conservation ter corals, deep-sea research, and the countries, UNEP provided participa- needs of these ecosystems were incor- Charlie-Gibbs Fracture Zone proposal tion support to experts and students porated into the IYOR 2008 events of for a high seas marine protected area. from Brazil, Colombia, and Russia to some countries. The event was attended by senior gov- attend the 4th International Deep Sea ernmental officials from the European Coral Symposium that was held from ospar side event Commission and all European coun- December, 1–5, 2008 in Wellington, tries bordering the Northeast Atlantic. New Zealand. In June 2008, an International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI) event on cor- [ 54[ 54 ] ] The Year in Figures »

45 More than 630 events… 61 Cleanups and surveys 45 Classes, workshops and seminars 61 Cleanups and surveys Conclusion 243 Festivals, fairs, dive shows, and exhibits Classes, workshops287 and seminars Contests 243 Festivals, fairs, dive shows, and exhibits 287 Contests

The International Year of the Reef 2008 campaign made significant strides in bringing attention to not only the of the countries, 2/3 beauty of coral reefs, but also their value as a source of sus- territories, and 41 Yes tenance, coastal protection, and income to over 500 mil- economies that contain No Yes 67 lion people around the world. IYOR 2008 succeeded shallow41 water coral No in achieving one of its primary objectives; to strengthen 67 reefs were involved in global awareness of the ecological, economic, social, and IYOR 2008… cultural values of coral reefs and the threats they face. The Plus » campaign’s educational programs introduced coral reefs to a multitude of students and teachers, planting seeds for > 20 national and regional launches the next generation of conservation leaders. IYOR 2008 events, such as beach and underwater cleanups and reef > Logo translated into 12 languages surveys, introduced citizens to the reef environment while > 2500 emails registered to the IYOR newsletter allowing them to make a tangible contribution to conser- > 15 videos produced vation efforts. The Year in Review [ 55 ]

Although progress was made during vorable for significant coral bleaching only to shallow and deep-water coral the IYOR 2008, much work remains to occur in the Caribbean and cen- reefs, but also to many other calcium to save our reefs. Moving forward, we tral to eastern Pacific in 2010. Climate carbonate based marine organisms, in- hope the many activities associated with models have shown that, even if green cluding marine algae that are respon- the IYOR 2008 campaign will continue house gas emissions are dramatically sible for producing half the world’s to raise awareness and inspire action to reduced, within the next two to three oxygen. Other threats, such as over- support coral reef conservation around decades bleaching events will likely be fishing and land-based pollution, -ex the globe. more severe and occur more frequently acerbate the impacts of climate change as a consequence of greenhouse gases on coral reefs. Many scientists warn The first International Year of the Reef already in the atmosphere. A poten- that, unless these threats are aggres- in 1997 coincided with the worst cor- tially greater threat to coral reefs, also sively addressed, most coral reef sys- al bleaching ever recorded up to that related to the buildup of atmospher- tems will disappear by the end of the time. In the years since, severe bleach- ic carbon dioxide, is ocean acidifica- century. ing events have become a more regu- tion. Recent studies have shown that lar occurrence around the globe with the growth of coral in Australia’s Great While there is still time to make a dif- major events observed in Australia in Barrier Reef has already slowed to the ference, the “Status of Coral Reefs of 2002 and the Caribbean in 2005. As lowest rate in at least 400 years, part- the World: 2008” recommended the this publication goes to press, scien- ly as a result of this threat. Unchecked, following priority actions to conserve tists from NOAA’s Coral Reef Watch ocean acidification has the potential coral reefs for future generations: Program report that conditions are fa- to cause catastrophic destruction, not [ 56 ] International year of the reef

■■ Urgently combat global climate IYOR 2008, and outcomes of these and We hope that the activities inspired by change; new actions will continue to manifest IYOR 2008 will encourage you to take ■■ Maximize coral reef resilience; in the future. To further implement the action to save coral reefs; the need is ■■ Include more reefs in marine pro- priority actions above, we must work to great and the time is now. tected areas (MPAs); strengthen and expand the global net- ■■ Protect remote reefs; work of coral conservation advocates, ■■ Improve enforcement of MPA regu- from grassroots communities to heads lations; and of government, carrying the banner of ■■ Improve decision making with bet- coral conservation. ter ecological and socioeconomic monitoring.

The “Socioeconomic Conditions Along In the end, we will protect only what the World’s Tropical Coasts: 2008” re- we love. We will love only what we port, also released during the IYOR understand. We will understand 2008, recommends incorporating local community members in decision mak- only what we are taught. ing to achieve effective coastal and ma- —Baba Dioum, Senegalese poet and naturalist rine resource management. Aspects of all of these actions took place during photo credits:

Cover » Elisei Shafer Inside Cover » Wyland ©2008 Page 5 » Dave Burdick Page 9 » IISD/Markus Staas Page 21 » Andrea Charuk Page 25 » National Environment and Planning Agency (Jamaica) Page 29 » Carol Cramer-Burke, St. Croix Environmental Association Page 30 » Government of Belize Press Office Page 31 » Carlos Hiller Page 32 » Silvio Regina Pinheiro Page 34 » Vineeta Hoon, Centre for Action Research on Environment Science and Society Page 37 » Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (Malaysia) Page 39 » Niphon Phongsuwan Page 41 » American Samoa Department of Commerce Page 42 » Lihla Noori, NOAA Coral Reef Management Fellow, CNMI 2006–08 Page 46 » Hans Sjoeholm Page 50 » Chris Poonian, Community Centred Conservation Page 52 » Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary/NOAA

Note: Any conclusions or recommendations provided in this report are solely the opinions of the authors, contributors and editors and do not constitute a statement of policy, decision, or position on behalf of the participating organizations, including those represented on the cover. Over 500 million people have some level of dependence upon coral reefs for food resources and/or supplementary income from fishing, coastal protection, building materials, and income from tourism. Of this number, 30 million are almost totally dependent on coral reefs. (Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network)