Recently, the Egyptian government announced a series of measures to strengthen the protection of coral reefs in the Red Sea, aimed at addressing the threats of climate change and human activities to the marine ecosystem. The Red Sea coral reefs are renowned for their rich biodiversity and unique natural landscapes, attracting a large number of tourists every year and bringing huge profits to Egypt's tourism industry. However, with global climate change and increasing human activities, coral reefs are facing serious threats. The Egyptian government actively promotes coral reef conservation through legislation, establishment of protected areas, and promotion of eco-friendly tourism.
Red Sea Coral Reefs: Egypt's' National Treasure 'and Global Ecological Resources
The Red Sea coral reefs are one of the most diverse ecosystems in terms of biodiversity. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), although coral reefs cover less than 1% of the seabed area, they provide a habitat for approximately 25% of marine species. Egyptian Environment Minister Yasmin Fuad said, "The Red Sea coral reefs are not only a national treasure of Egypt, but also a precious resource of the world. We have a responsibility to protect them through more sustainable measures
At present, Egypt has recorded 209 coral species, among which the Red Sea coral resources are the most abundant. According to statistics, the Red Sea tourism industry generates approximately $7 billion in revenue for Egypt annually, of which 86% comes from coral reef tourism. However, factors such as overdevelopment, plastic pollution, and climate change pose a serious threat to coral reefs.
Legislative protection and ecological restoration
To protect coral reefs, the Egyptian government has introduced the Environmental Law and the Nature Reserve Protection Law, which explicitly prohibit the destruction or trade of coral reefs and other marine organisms. Violators will face 6 months in prison and a fine of 5000 to 50000 Egyptian pounds (approximately 1160 to 11600 RMB), as well as compensation for ecological damage.
In addition, the Egyptian Ministry of Environment launched the Coral Nursery Project in September 2022, planning to establish dozens of coral nurseries off the coast of Hurghada to repair coral reefs damaged by human activities and promote the growth of coral fragments. This project is considered an important innovation by Egypt in the field of coral reef ecological restoration.
Promote zero plastic tourism and reduce pollution
To reduce the impact of plastic waste on coral reefs, the Egyptian government is promoting the "zero plastic tourism" initiative in the Red Sea region, encouraging tourists and tourism practitioners to reduce the use of plastic products. This measure has received positive response from the local tourism industry, further promoting the sustainable development of the Red Sea region.
Civil organizations actively participate
Egyptian civil organizations and associations have also played an important role in coral reef conservation. The Hurghada Environmental Protection Association has installed buoys at major diving sites to reduce damage to coral reefs caused by ship breakdowns. The association has also raised public awareness of environmental protection by training divers, captains, and promoting environmental knowledge to tourists. The relevant person in charge of the association, El Ramli, said, "These conservation measures and publicity activities will raise public awareness of conservation and contribute to the long-term protection of the Red Sea ecology and coral reefs
International cooperation to address climate change
Mahmoud Hanafi, a marine biologist at Suez University in Egypt, pointed out that protecting coral reefs requires joint efforts from governments, international organizations, and research institutions. He said, "We must promote scientific and efficient international cooperation to implement common commitments and reduce the impact of climate change on coral reefs." During the 27th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP27) held in November 2022, the Egyptian government announced the establishment of new marine protected areas, further expanding the scope of protection for marine ecosystems.
Future prospects
Egypt's efforts in protecting coral reefs in the Red Sea not only provide valuable experience for global marine ecological protection, but also demonstrate the balance between ecological protection and economic development. Through the joint efforts of the government, civil society organizations, and the international community, Egypt is making significant contributions to the sustainable development of coral reefs worldwide.
The future of the Red Sea coral reefs is not only related to Egypt's tourism industry and marine economy, but also to the protection of global biodiversity. Egypt's measures provide reference for countries around the world and inject new hope into the sustainable development of global marine ecosystems.
(Editer：admin)
