Why care about coral reefs?

Those who live far from oceans may not give much thought to coral reefs.  However, coral reefs are very important to the health of the ocean, as well as providing many benefits to people.  The article at the link below describes ways that coral reefs are beneficial.  The article doesn’t cover how to protect coral reefs, but here are a few ideas from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: 

• Use ocean-friendly sunscreen, even if you are in a natural water body far from the ocean.
• If you are in the water near corals and coral reefs, do not step on them, brush against them or break pieces off.  Touching coral reefs can kill the corals, and it can take a long time to regenerate an area that is damaged.  Stirring up a lot of silt from the ocean floor can also damage corals.
• High ocean temperatures can kill large areas of coral reefs.  Because climate change is increasing the temperature in the oceans, anything you do to help reduce climate change will help the corals (and the rest of the earth and its creatures).   
• Conserve water.  The less water you use, the less runoff and wastewater that will eventually find its way into the ocean. 
• Pick up trash and other litter so it doesn’t get into water bodies.
• Choose sustainable seafood.
• Don’t send chemicals into the waterways.  This includes excess fertilizer that can cause algae growth that blocks sunlight to corals. 

https://waterlust.com/blogs/the-waterlust-blog/why-care-about-coral-reefs