The reefs, due to heat stress are suffering a very fast and progressive deterioration and will die due to bleaching if there is no brake on global warming, according to one of the last studies of the United Nations.
UNESCO also points in the same direction: unless carbon emissions are reduced enough to slow down the oceans, the world’s coral reefs, from the great Australian barrier to the Seychelles Islands in Africa, are in danger of death.
In case these warnings were not enough, according to data on the surveillance of coral reef of the Oceanic and Atmospheric National Administration (NOAA), in the last two years – concluded from January 1, 2023 until April 30, 2025 – about 84% of the world’s coral reef surface has been seriously affected by stress due to the heat, beating all the heat, beating all the heat due to the heat known historical.
Death due to bleaching
The bleaching of corals is produced by a loss of symbiotic algae that provide them with energy and color. The increase in ocean temperature causes coral polyps to stress and expel these algae, so that they become white and die. According to data provided by the NOAA, last year it was the hottest registered and the temperatures of January of this year have set a new world milestone again.
In the opinion of Melanie McField, marine scientist “the magnitude and reach of heat stress are shocking. Some reefs that until now had escaped from an important thermal stress and that we thought they were something resistant, have succumbed to partial mortalities in 2024”.
But not only the increase in temperatures is the cause of its destruction, also pollution, acidification of destructive oceans and practices help form a lethal combination for coral reefs
Reef value
The whitening and the death of the corals have effects throughout the marine food chain. About 25% of fish and other sea creatures depend on corals as a refuge and food source, their disappearance can lead to the decrease in these populations.
The reef also act as natural barriers, protecting the coasts of erosion and storms. Without them, coastal communities are more vulnerable to natural disasters. From an economic point of view its disappearance will also seriously have an impact on societies that live from fishing and tourism.
Conservation efforts
Worldwide, different efforts and projects are being carried out, both in the public and private sphere, to protect and restore coral reefs. Initiatives ranging from the creation of protected marine areas, through scientific research to better understand the behavior of corals and their needs, to restoration programs that seek to reintroduce healthy corals in areas of specially damaged populations.
Companies also adopt environmental criteria in their medium and long -term business models. Naturgy One of the main energy companies has projects for the conservation and protection of marine ecosystems. These projects not only seek to preserve marine biodiversity, but also sensitize society about the importance of keeping the oceans and seas healthy.
Energy has implemented several marine habitat restoration projects, such as coral reefs, marine and mangrove pastures. These initiatives not only help recover degraded areas, but also provide refuge and food to numerous marine species.
Naturgy works hand in hand with different organizations, scientists and experts in ecological restoration that are specified in scientific studies and collaborations with universities and research centers to develop new technologies and methods that improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their conservation initiatives.
The company has also launched specific projects for the restoration of coral reefs, including the planting of coral fragments and the creation of artificial structures that facilitate its growth.
In addition to direct conservation efforts, Naturgy, through its foundation, dedicates significant resources to education and awareness about the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. The company organizes workshops, seminars and communication campaigns aimed at different audiences, from schools to professionals in the sector, in order to increase interest in promoting more sustainable and responsible environmental practices.