Reefs at Risk in the Caribbean: Threats to coral reefs from land-based sources of pollution

Coral reefs support many economic activities and livelihoods. They provide habitat for fish and shellfish fisheries, a valuable source of protein and livelihood for many coastal communities. Coral reefs are an important attraction for tourists, supporting the lucrative dive tourism industry, and enhance coastal tourism in general through allowing the development and existence of white sand beaches. Coral reefs, and associated mangrove and seagrass ecosystems, protect shorelines, by reducing storm impact and routine erosion from waves. In addition, the profound biodiversity of these ecosystems has enormous value as a potential provider of life-saving pharmaceuticals, and for their pure aesthetic and spiritual value.

However, rising population densities, associated coastal development, and increased fishing, agricultural, and industrial activities are resulting in increased pressure on Caribbean coral reefs. The extent and degree of stress has increased markedly in the last 30 years and a wide range of human activities directly threaten coral reefs, resulting in degradation in many areas. Although pressure on coral reefs will increase as population grows and development increases, better management can help reduce the threat and protect these valuable ecosystems. As an aid to better management, the Reefs at Risk model produces map-based indicators, which are a simplification of human activities and complex natural processes, to gauge potential human pressure on coral reefs. Here, we present an overview of the indicators for land-based sources of threat to reefs.