PRESS RELEASE – September 6, 2024
Two-thirds of the world’s coral reefs have already been lost due to human activity and more than 60% of the remaining coral reefs could disappear in the next 10-15 years if no actions are taken. The world’s corals are facing unprecedented threats, but a new wave of hope is on the horizon. In an ambitious effort to highlight the critical work being done by scientists across the globe to save our planet’s corals and coral reefs, CORDAP announces the launch of its web series, “To the Rescue of Corals,” premiering September 9, 2024 across Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
“To the Rescue of Corals” is a novel 14-episode web series that embarks on a global journey to showcase the cutting-edge coral research funded by CORDAP through the Coral Accelerator Program (CAP). Each episode dives deep into unique locations around the world—from the vibrant reefs of the Caribbean to the hidden gems of the Indo-Pacific—shedding light on the innovative solutions being developed by scientists to help corals thrive despite the many threats they face, such as rising sea temperatures and water pollution.
A Global Initiative for Coral Conservation
CORDAP’s Coral Accelerator Program (CAP) has catalyzed groundbreaking international research in more than 20 countries, fostering dedicated partnerships between researchers in the Global North and Global South. Since most coastal reefs are located in developing nations, it’s crucial that Global South citizens are involved in efforts to save corals and coral reefs. This series underscores CORDAP’s core value of gathering the best minds worldwide, in a transdisciplinary approach, to propose ideas and concepts that will accelerate international research and development to supply the technologies and innovations required to secure a future for corals.
Meet the scientists
Featuring world-leading coral researchers and experts, “To the Rescue of Corals” presents the passionate scientists dedicated to reversing the decline of corals. Among them is Dr. Valeria Pizarro, at the Perry Institute:
“Our project focuses on developing probiotics to enhance corals’ immune response to SCTLD, a highly lethal coral disease. I have been dealing with SCTLD affected corals since 2020 and the scale of coral mortality is overwhelming. There is no cure currently, and what we can do in terms of applying antibiotics to stop the disease is limited and there is always a possibility of treated corals to get reinfected by SCTLD.”
A new web series to ignite global action
Tailored specifically for social media, each episode is short and presents an overview of each project, highlighting what makes each of one different. Designed to captivate a wide audience, from researchers and philanthropists to ocean lovers worldwide, the series not only educates but also inspires action and awareness, aiming to ignite a passion for coral research and conservation.
Episodes will be released twice a week— on Mondays and Wednesdays — on CORDAP’s social media platforms, ensuring a steady stream of engaging content to keep the public informed and inspired.
Watch the trailer now
The official trailer for “To the Rescue of Corals” is available now. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to glimpse the future of coral research worldwide.
Dive into the future of coral conservation and restoration with “To the Rescue of Corals” and be part of the solution to one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.
Photo: Valeria Pizarro
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About CORDAP
The G20 Coral Research and Development Accelerator Platform Foundation (CORDAP) was established by G20 countries and is the only international organization fully dedicated to funding global research and development for tropical and cold-water coral restoration and conservation. Through a dedicated foundation – the CORDAP Foundation – all donations and contributions go directly to coral restoration R&D activities. Since 2022 the Coral Accelerator Program awarded USD$28 million to multinational collaborative teams. CORDAP’s target is to raise a minimum of USD$300M to invest in urgently needed novel solutions, to restore and secure corals and reefs for future generations.
Contact information
Carla Lourenço, Communications Specialist
Email: carla.lourenco@kaust.edu.sa