Scorching Summers and Bleaching Reefs: Unveiling 2023’s Climate Crisis and Coral Survival Efforts

In 2023, the world experienced its hottest summer on record since the 1880s.

Anticipating this, the National Coral Reef Monitoring Network decided to take action. From September to November, the network collectively gathered data on coral bleaching to evaluate the threats posed by climate change and excessive heat to the reef. This process proved to be both challenging and enlightening, serving as the foundation for the network’s workplan in 2024.

Surveys were done in September, October and November by SEA (Southern Environmental Association), TIDE (Toledo Institute for Development and Environment (TIDE)), FiD (Fisheries Department), TASA (Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association), and WCS (Wildlife Conservation Society).

In February and March of the following year, 2024, post-bleaching surveys were conducted to assess the survival rates of corals in the areas most affected in 2023.

Surveys were done in February and March by TASA and FiD

Tara Scarborough ‘’I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to launching and successfully completing this project. While there is still much work ahead, this endeavor served as an invaluable stepping stone for future planning insights. Your dedication and effort did not go unnoticed, and I am sincerely grateful to all of you involved.

Thank you to the Great Barrier Reef Foundation for supporting us in taking immediate and successful action at a crucial moment in time. Your assistance is greatly appreciated. ‘’

STAY TUNED FOR UPDATES ON THE RESULTS OF THESE SURVEYS IN THE UPCOMING RECAP NEWSLETTER!