TED Talks Daily A new lifeline for the world's coral reefs | Theresa Fyffe
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Jun 5, 2025 
Theresa Fyffe, a dedicated reef guardian at the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, sheds light on the critical state of the world's coral reefs, which are facing overwhelming threats from climate change. She discusses innovative solutions combining scientific breakthroughs with Indigenous wisdom aimed at large-scale coral restoration. The conversation highlights the use of ceramic cradles for heat-tolerant corals and the empowering collaboration between technology and traditional practices. Together, they aim to revitalize these vital ecosystems by ambitious future planting goals.
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Coral Reefs' Critical Importance
- Coral reefs are the most biodiverse ecosystem and crucial to over a billion people for food and livelihoods.
- They are highly vulnerable to climate change, with up to 90% potentially lost by 2050.
Coral Bleaching Explained
- Coral bleaching causes corals to expel their nourishing algae, turning them white and starving them.
- Prolonged heat stress leads to coral death, threatening global reefs severely.
Restoration as a Coral Treatment
- Coral restoration can act as vital treatment to buy time for reefs while fighting climate change.
- A cure for climate change is needed but immediate interventions are essential now.