Conserve energy
Switch off lights and appliances (including TV and computers) when not in use; adjust thermostats to conserve energy; make sure […]
Say no to plastic!
Don’t use plastic bags – recycle bags or use baskets and textile bags; buy in bulk to reduce use of […]
Spread the word
Remember your own excitement at learning the value and importance of coral reef ecosystems. Sharing this excitement gets everyone involved.
Stay informed
Find out about existing and proposed laws, programs, and projects that could affect the world’s coral reefs. Many Web sites provide […]
Respect local guidelines when you visit a reef
Help keep coral reefs healthy by respecting local customs, recommendations, and regulations. Ask local authorities or your dive shop how […]
Participate in the Great Annual Fish Count
The Great Annual Fish Count What better way to enjoy your vacation than snorkeling or diving in America’s coral reefs? The […]
Don’t anchor on the reef
If you are boating near a coral reef, use mooring buoy systems when they are available.
Hire local guides when visiting coral reef ecosystems
This will help you learn about local resources, and protect the future of the reef by supporting the local economy.
Be a marine debris crusader!
In addition to picking up your own trash, carry away the trash that others have left behind. More than just […]
Report dumping or other illegal activities
Help be the eyes and ears of the reef! Your involvement can make a big difference.
Become a volunteer monitor!
Participate in community coral reef monitoring programs. If you do not live near a coast, get involved in protecting your […]
Conserve water
The less water you use, the less runoff and wastewater eventually find their ways back into the oceans.
Recycle
This helps keep trash out of the oceans and also out of landfills where it can have an adverse impact […]
Support reef-friendly businesses
Ask what your dive shop, boating store, tour operator, hotel and other coastal businesses are doing to save coral reefs. […]
If you dive, don’t touch!
Take only pictures and leave only bubbles. Keep your fins, gear, and hands away from the reef, as this contact […]
Visit your local aquarium or zoo
Ask what they are doing and how you can help conserve our coral reefs. The answer may pleasantly surprise you. […]
Be an informed consumer
Only buy marine fish and other reef organisms when you know they have been collected in an ecologically sound manner. […]
Volunteer for a reef cleanup
You don’t live near a coral reef? Then consider visiting a coral reef on your next vacation. Spend an afternoon […]
Don’t use chemically enhanced pesticides and fertilizers
Although you may live thousands of miles from a coral reef ecosystem, these products end up in the watershed — […]
Support organizations that protect coral reefs
Many groups have coral reef programs, and your support will make a big difference.
Be a wastewater crusader!
Make sure that sewage from your boat and home is correctly treated. Excess nutrients in wastewater can negatively impact coral […]
Educate yourself about coral reefs and the creatures they support
How many different species live in reefs? What new medicines have been developed from reef organisms? Participate in training or […]