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https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/apr/17/coral-reefs-extinction-global-warming-jason-momoa>
"Where I come from – Hawai’i – the reef isn’t just something you look at. It’s
part of us. It feeds our families, protects our shores, and lives at the center
of our culture. In our stories, coral is one of our oldest ancestors. It’s a
reminder that everything in the ocean, and all of us, are connected.
Right now, that integral connection is under threat.
Our coral reefs are under severe stress. The planet has just experienced the
most widespread coral bleaching event ever recorded, lasting 33 months into
2025. Scientists warn that at 1.5C of global warming, up to 90% of coral reefs
could be lost. Ninety per cent. And 1.5C is not lingering in the distance –
it’s extremely close.
Even if the world somehow hits its climate targets, reefs are still getting
pummeled by plastic pollution, coastal development, agricultural runoff and
overfishing. They’re so fragile. And when reefs weaken, coastlines get hit
harder by storms and rising seas. Homes and jobs become exposed. Cultures and
sacred places are put at risk. And the incredible range of underwater life
found only in reefs – once it’s gone, it’s gone for good.
But I refuse to let coral reefs be a lost cause.
In Hawai’i, we talk about
kuleana – a responsibility passed down through
generations. Different languages have different terms for it, but this sense of
duty and care is not a new concept. It’s been central, especially to island
nations and coastal societies, for centuries.
Now, for our environment and especially our reefs, this responsibility extends
to every single person on Earth. We all need to remember that we’re part of
nature, and taking care of it means taking care of ourselves.
What does this mean in practice? I’ve seen a few examples that stuck with me.
In French Polynesia, I worked with communities that are deeply tied to coral
reefs – and saw firsthand how readily they’ll step up and help restore them,
once given the tools and support to do so.
Through my work with the UN Environment Programme and the Global Fund for Coral
Reefs, I’ve also seen how smart investments can lead to major change. Even a
little bit of finance can go a long way to help people find new ways to earn a
living without destroying nature, boost conservation of marine ecosystems and
support communities in rebuilding sustainably after they’re hit by extreme
weather.
These give me hope. But the hard truth is that we still lack the luxury of time
to sit back and rely on what’s already happening. Climate change and
unsustainable development are moving fast, meaning we need to move faster.
That is why the next year matters."
Via Susan ****
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
