IUCN and MSC Foundation join forces to protect coral reefs

IUCN and the MSC Foundation have entered into a joint partnership to conserve and restore coral reefs.

It was announced during Monaco Ocean Week, which brings together international experts in marine conservation to discuss ocean issues.

“I am grateful for the support provided by the MSC Foundation. IUCN Red List assessments indicate over a third of coral species are in danger of extinction. Razan Al Mubarak, IUCN president, spoke about the partnership as his organization prepares to complete further assessments and ensure world leaders have the information they need to protect corals and their livelihoods.

During the partnership, coral species and coral reef areas that are most threatened will be identified, with conservation and restoration actions based on these threats. The process also includes reporting on how these conservation efforts contribute to the achievement of the UN’s Global Biodiversity Framework goals.

“As stewards of our planet, we are responsible for protecting its precious ecosystems,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, chairman of the MSC Foundation Executive Committee. Coral reefs, mangrove forests, and seagrass beds are threatened by coral bleaching, and our new partnership with IUCN demonstrates our commitment to protecting and restoring them.

We can protect these essential ecosystems for future generations if we empower decision-makers and practitioners to act on global recommendations derived from the Global Marine Biodiversity Assessment.”

In an interview with MSCF executive director Daniela Picco, she emphasized MSC’s commitment to ocean science and its excitement to partner with IUCN to accelerate marine conservation efforts. Our efforts to restore and protect the oceans mark a significant step forward with this partnership.

Besides complementing our Superoral Programme and other marine conservation efforts, it offers promising opportunities for new partners to be involved with communication and dissemination. Our planet will thrive if we work together for generations to come as marine life flourishes and the oceans are restored.”