CONSERVATION
Protecting the species and ecosystems that make the Red Sea extraordinary
Humans have contributed to the widespread destruction of the Red Sea's valuable ecosystems and its associated fauna through a number of acute and chronic pollutant discharges, destructive processes, and uncontrolled and unregulated development. These effects are more noticeable where social and traditional practices have changed with a lack of infrastructure, finances, and educational resources. Destructive fishing pressures and the development of a coastal industry affects reefs throughout their geographic range. If humans are to be the savior of these ecosystems over the coming decades, there is going to have to be a change in fishing practices, and adherence to development guidelines and regulations, as well as integrated coastal management programs that take into account socio-economics.