Securing Coral Reefs: Integrating Sustainable Development Goals in the Anthropocene

Abstract

Amidst escalating threats to coral reefs during the Anthropocene era, an urgent call emerges for a holistic strategy that seamlessly integrates Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring the conservation and sustainable development of these vital ecosystems. Employing an interdisciplinary lens, this chapter delves into the current state of coral reefs, shedding light on the critical need for immediate action. The study emphasizes the transformative potential of SDGs as a guiding framework for policies and initiatives aimed at fortifying resilient ecosystems and uplifting the communities intricately tied to coral reef ecosystems. Drawing on diverse case studies and successful conservation models, this chapter discerns key strategies essential for realizing SDGs in the intricate context of coral reefs. The synthesis of ecological and socio-economic perspectives contributes to a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted challenges and opportunities entwined in securing the sustainability of coral reefs within the Anthropocene. The study underscores the imperativeness of collaborative efforts, innovative solutions, and policy coherence to effectively navigate the intricate issues surrounding coral reefs, offering a blueprint for the integration of SDGs into practical conservation and sustainable development initiatives. As coral reefs teeter on the brink of irreversible decline, this research advocates for a comprehensive and dynamic approach that transcends disciplinary boundaries, promoting the vitality of these ecosystems and the well-being of the communities reliant upon them.