Coral Reef Degradation in the Indian Ocean Status Report 2005

Abstract

The dependence of coastal populations on coral reef and their vulnerability to climate change demanded action that would promote sustainable use of natural resources. CORDIO is a research programme that was initiated in 999 in response to the degradation of coral reefs in the Indian Ocean where they support large sectors of the countries’ populations and economies through fisheries, tourism and large-scale investments. CORDIO is a locally driven, regional initiative that supports more than 45 research and monitoring projects that are conducted by no less than 50 scientists at local institutions in  countries throughout the western and central Indian Ocean. CORDIO builds on existing capacity in the Indian Ocean region that was established through more than a decade of dedicated support from Sida’s Regional Marine Science Programme. The activities of CORDIO are arranged into 6 broad but interlinked themes: . Ecological and socio-economic monitoring of the health of coral reefs, the impacts of human activities and climate change and the consequences for coastal populations dependent on coral reef resources. 2. Targeted Research focused on understanding ecological processes that are essential for healthy, functioning coral reefs, processes of recovery and options for rehabilitation. 3. Management and Policy Actions that use the results of monitoring and research programmes to mitigate future damage to coral reefs and improve the quality of life for dependent populations. 4. Alternative Livelihoods that improve the quality of life of coastal people by providing sustainable alternative sources of income that do not rely on harvesting coral reef resources. 5. Education and Awareness of the impacts of human activities on coral reefs and the need for management. 6. Networking and Communication to disseminate results and strengthen capacity and develop collaborative partnerships within the regional network. The activities conducted within these themes will produce tangible on-the-ground benefits to coral reefs and the people within the central and western Indian Ocean who depend on their resources. CORDIO’s activities contribute directly to resolving several areas of global concern such as food security, poverty alleviation and particularly, the impacts of global climate change and conservation of biodiversity.