Topic: oceans

This paper assesses the policy influence of previous coastal ecosystem economic valuations in the Caribbean and identifies the key “enabling conditions” for valuations to influence policy, management, or investment decisions. These findings will inform WRI’s and our partners’ efforts to produce a standardized framework for economic valuation of coastal ecosystems in the Caribbean.

As climate change has resulted in sea level rise, its impacts on states like Florida are profound. This fact sheet examines those impacts as well what county governments and others are doing to respond.

Three leading global environmental and conservation organizations are honoring Indonesia’s President H.E. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono with the first-ever “Valuing Nature Award” for his leadership in recognizing the importance of natural resources and working to conserve them.

“Reefs at Risk Revisited in the Coral Triangle” maps threats to reefs in Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Solomon Islands, and Timor-Leste

RELEASE: New Assessment Finds Management Efforts are Insufficient to Protect Mesoamerican Reef

First-ever Eco-Audit of the Mesoamerican Reef Countries

2011 Eco-Audit of the Mesoamerican Reef Countries

This Eco-Audit evaluates efforts to protect and sustainably manage the region’s coral reefs; celebrates management success stories; and documents the extent to which recommended management actions have been implemented in Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico.

Exploring Threats to Coral Reefs with GIS Data Sets

This piece originally appeared in the Winter 2012 edition of Esri’s ArcUser Magazine. The full text, graphics, and GIS datasets are available here.

Coastal Capital: Jamaica

Coastal Capital: Jamaica evaluates the contribution of coral reefs to the Jamaican economy, as well as the benefits that will be lost if coral reefs degrade further.

Update [10/17/2011]: WRI has released the latest edition of Climate Science.

A new economic valuation shows what Jamaica’s economy stands to lose if its coral reefs decline further.

Despite their benefits to national economies, reefs around the world are at risk, including in the United States.

Coral reefs provide significant value to the Jamaican economy, including tourism, fisheries and shoreline protection, according to new analysis released today.

Recipients to receive awards at the Ocean Inspiration event in NYC on May 18

This week, WRI is joining Céline Cousteau to celebrate the life and legacy of Jacques Cousteau – a man who opened the world’s eyes to what lies beneath the sea.

A conversation with Céline Cousteau.