14/10/2022
~ Get sunscreen savvy~
This beautiful image was taken at Kudu Haa dive site in the Thaa Atoll by Reefscape co-founder Louisa just a few months ago and shows what a healthy coral reef should look like.
During our recent trip to the Maldives we were reminded, as always, of the devastating effect of coral bleaching on reefs that have historically been some of the most beautiful in the world. Major bleaching events in 1998 and 2016 have led to the death of many of the Maldives most crucial reef-building coral species. Assessments in a 2016 IUCN survey conducted by resort marine biologists and citizen scientists suggested up to 73% of all corals were bleached.
Deeper reefs like this one pictured, have displayed enhanced resilience to bleaching events, and a number of hope spots have been declared across the Maldives. We have seen firsthand the amazing results from resorts who are putting research and conservation measures in place to protect and nurture their house reefs, which fills us with hope for reef recovery on a wide scale level.
You can do your part too! Tourism plays a crucial role in providing funding and resources for these projects, and shining a light on these issues. On an individual level, you can make small steps like changing your sunscreen to a reef-safe option to protect these delicate organisms against harmful chemicals that are toxic to reefs and can lead to bleaching.
We have rounded up some of our favourite sun cream options, cutting through the false claims of many brands who claim to be ‘eco-friendly’ or ‘reef friendly’. Our blog, linked in our bio, explains what you need to know, and how to make better choices.