Costas Christ, National Geographic Traveller on Ocean Conservation

“Coral reefs are the “rainforests” of the sea, containing 25% of all marine life, providing nourishment for an estimated 500 million people, protecting fragile shoreline ecosystems and attracting tourists that sustain coastal economies with tens of billions of dollars in annual revenue. And these reefs are also facing serious threats including sediment runoff, destructive fishing practices and poorly planned coastal development. This includes the spectacular Mesoamerican Reef – the Western Hemisphere’s longest barrier reef. To save this precious natural heritage will take a new kind of leadership and that is exactly what the MAR Leadership Program is all about—working with dynamic young leaders of today who will become the decision makers of tomorrow—committed to protecting the amazing Mesoamerican Reef System. By supporting the innovative conservation projects of these young leaders, the MAR program is working at the grassroots level—including scientific research, sustainable fishing practices, and community-based tourism—to build a new generation of coral reef conservationists. It’s about giving back to help save our planet for future generations.”