Coral reefs may stop growing by 2040 due to climate change.
Coral reefs in the western Atlantic may stop growing and start eroding by 2040 due to climate change.
Why it matters
- Coral reefs protect coastlines from flooding and wave damage.
- Their decline could increase coastal flooding risks.
By the numbers
- 70% of reefs will stop growing by 2040.
- 99% of reefs will be eroding by 2100 if warming exceeds 2°C.
- Water depth increases of 0.3–0.5 m by 2060.
The big picture
- Climate change and sea-level rise threaten coral reefs' ability to grow and protect coastlines.
- Reef restoration may help but has limitations.
What they're saying
- Commenters express sadness and concern about the rapid changes.
- One commenter questions if rising sea levels might create new habitable zones for coral.
Caveats
- The study focuses on the tropical western Atlantic.
- Projections depend on future emission scenarios and climate mitigation efforts.
What’s next
- Further research is needed to understand impacts on other regions.
- Efforts in reef restoration and climate mitigation could help mitigate some impacts.