The oceans cover 71% of the earth, providing 80% of our oxygen and food for 3.5 billion people; yet less than one half of one percent of our oceans are protected. The health of the ocean is vital and coral reefs are sounding the alarm. Corals create spectacular undersea ecosystems and are home to thousands of plant and animal species.

These "rainforests of the sea" are threatened by illegal and unsustainable fishing, global warming, and pollution. Today three quarter's of the world's coral reefs are now at risk due to over fishing, pollution, and global warming.

Maintaining 10% of the ocean's ecosystems as “no take marine protected areas” is the best chance for coral's survival.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP CORALS?

• Tell elected officials and other influential people to create new Marine Protected Areas to protect coral reefs.
• Never eat reef fish or deep sea fish caught by bottom trawling, the world's most destructive fishing method.
• Never buy products from coral reefs, including coral jewelry.

Learn more at: http://www.oceanconservationscience.org/projects/ecosystems/hope.shtml