![\"Bleached](\"http:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Keppelbleaching.jpg\")
<\/a>Bleached Staghorn coral Photo credit: Wikipedia<\/p><\/div>\n
So what can be done, how can we tackle these somewhat overwhelming issues?<\/p>\n
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- Educating people can help with reducing physical damage from boats, harvesters and divers.<\/li>\n
- Creating and maintaining marine protected areas \u00a0can allow coral reefs to strengthen and multiply.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"Photo](\"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/crfreturnofthereef\/files\/2013\/11\/IMG_9171-1024x768.jpg\")
<\/a>Photo credit: Katelyn Dick<\/p><\/div>\n
Overall strengthening of reef health through coral restoration is important because it increases their ability to be resistant and resilient in the face of damage and changing conditions . \u00a0It is important to protect the coral we have and attempt to restore what we have lost while we tackle the bigger problems at the same time.<\/p>\n
What Can You Do to Help Protect Coral Reefs?\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/crfreturnofthereef\/files\/2013\/11\/NOAA-Transparent-Logo-300x300.png\")
<\/a>\u00a0Here are some suggestions provided by NOAA:<\/a><\/p>\n- \n
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Using energy-efficient light bulbs help to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions. \u00a0Climate change is one of the leading threats to coral reef survival.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Don\u2019t send chemicals into our waterways. \u00a0Try using naturally-derived and biodegradable detergents and cleaning products.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- Corals are already a gift. Don’t give them as presents.<\/li>\n
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Be a marine debris crusader \u2013 pick up after yourself and properly dispose of other garbage you come across – wherever you are.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Recycle. This helps keep trash out of the oceans and also out of landfills where it can have an adverse impact on the water quality of our rivers and oceans.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Volunteer for a reef or beach cleanup. Don’t live near a coral reef? Then consider volunteering for a beach, river, or stream cleanup, if you live near one.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Coral reefs are alive. If you dive, don’t touch! Take only pictures and leave only bubbles.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Spread the word! Let other people know why they should care about coral reefs.<\/p>\n
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