I'm not a tree-hugger by any means, but college has made me more aware of global environmental problems and the reality of their severity. Plus, I really don't think a lot of people pay attention to the natural world; I think we just take it for granted. I'm sure there are groups of people or individuals who care greatly about the environment, but really how much can be done to help if the world as a whole is not on the same page? More people, especially younger generations need to be aware of just how badly humans are destroying natural habitats and ecosystems, and why these structures are so important to us. If we can reach the younger generations now, maybe we can make greater change for the future.
Take coral reefs for example. Humans do so many things that hurt these amazing structures, the "rain forests of the oceans." Imagine the benefits and wildlife found in rain forests around the world. If coral reefs have just as much benefits and biodiversity, why aren't we doing more to protect them? Reefs are disappearing around the world because of rising CO2 levels, waste runoff, coastal construction, harmful fishing habits, etc. All these things can be regulated to an extent to better protect reefs instead of harming them. Also, I learned in my Oceanography class that because of the decline of rain forests, coral reefs have taken the #1 spot in natural CO2 reducers. Coral is our last hope of a natural way to fight "Global Warming." Unfortunately, there is little repect for these structures, and not enough global education of the importance and vulnerability of coral. Can we all work together to spread the word enough to make a difference? We are losing one of the last precious natural resources of the earth that always gives back, no matter how badly we have treated it. Eventually, if nothing is done, we will not get the benefits of these amazing underwater ecosystems.
So take a look around and get to know what makes coral reefs so important! Once you learn about it, you'll be able to share that knowledge with other people and help achieve the amount of support reefs need to be on their way back to having a healthy environment. Enjoy!
