4th Annual Classy Awards

Coral reefs are in decline all over the globe. Although they are located in the tropics, their benefits are far reaching all across the world, and something must be done to address the decline of coral reef systems and the ocean ecosystems

In just over a decade, the Reef Ball Foundation has conducted over 4,000 projects and deployed over 1/2 million Reef Balls. We have placed Reef Balls in 59 countries and our projects have a global reach in 70+ countries. On average each Reef Ball produces about 180 kilograms (400 lbs) of bio-mass (animal or plant life) each year, and Reef Balls have an expected life of at least 500 years. Therefore, 9 Billion kilograms of biomass will be added to the world’s oceans over the next five centuries as a result of Reef Ball efforts.

Our work includes designed reefs, ground breaking coral propagation and planting systems, estuary restoration, red mangrove plantings, oyster reef restoration, erosion control (often beach erosion), and expert collaboration on a variety of oceanic issues and educational projects in schools. Projects range from a near shore reef restoration project in Montserrat to an oyster restoration project in Mobile Bay, Alabama as part of oil spill restoration projects to youth educational projects in Florida and Maryland. Partners include governments, NGO’s like The Nature Conservancy, The Girl Scouts, schools, and research institutes. The Reef Ball Foundation is proud to be a winner of Intel’s global environmental award, The Tech Award, for technology that benefits humanity.

Coral reefs are important because they provide a home for much of our marine environment and protect our coastlines. Without reefs, marine life will be threatened, we will have severe losses in biodiversity of species, and eventually will bankrupt our fishing systems. With the world overpopulation problems growing and with our fishing systems broke, we will face a severe challenge in finding a way to feed the planet.

Also, coral reefs are an important factor to the economy and tourism around the world. The reef systems are a key component to our fisheries and tourism industries on which many countries base their entire economy. Coral reefs are like the rainforest of the ocean, and with their great plant and animal biodiversity many medicinal uses have been found within the reefs. Coral reefs should be preserved, so that we may continue to do drug research on potential cures for diseases. Just like the rain forests, the coral reefs of the world may yield many new substances that can be used to better the human condition. Save reefs and the life they support so those discoveries can be made before they disappear.