Coral reefs in the Pacific account for nearly 27% of the world's total coral reefs and play a crucial ecological and social role for the islands and their inhabitants, as well as for biodiversity and local economies. These reefs help nourish and stabilize shorelines, generate income through tourism and fishing, serve as a vital protein source for many communities, and contribute to cultural identity. “As the saying goes, 'Time and tide wait for no man.' We must do everything possible to save and restore these coral reefs for the sake of survival and humanity,” stated the Honourable Ribanataake Awira, Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources of the Republic of Kiribati. His remarks were made during the launch of the new report, *Status and Trends of Coral Reefs in the Pacific: 1980–2023*. This report builds on the regional assessment released in 2018 and outlines the current state of the Pacific's coral reefs, offering insights into both regional and national trends from 1980 to 2023 to inform policy and effective management strategies.
Minister Awira recently announced an exciting finding in Kiribati: “Some of our islands, particularly those in the Line Island group, host coral reef strains that are resilient to temperature changes and show minimal bleaching. Researchers are now referring to these as 'super reefs'. This discovery gives us hope for a sustainable future for our communities that rely on these reef systems for their survival." He urged the global community to consider investing in the protection and potential replication of these super reefs in other coral reef areas affected by climate change to restore their vital functions for both the ocean and the people who depend on them. As we approach 2025, a pivotal year in the 2030 global agenda, this report underscores the urgent need for ongoing action.
In partnership with key leaders and stakeholders from the Pacific region, including the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), country representatives, and significant financial contributors, this report was unveiled today at the third UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France. "I extend my congratulations to the International Coral Reef Initiative, the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network, SPREP, and all other partners for releasing the new edition of the Status and Trends of Coral Reefs of the Pacific 1980–2023. Kiribati is truly honoured to be included in this latest report," stated Minister Awira. SPREP, which is supporting Pacific delegations at UNOC3 through the One CROP initiative, was represented at the meeting by Mr Jope Davetanivalu, Head of the SPREP Delegation and Director of Environmental Governance.
“SPREP is committed to making the report accessible, widely shared, and effectively utilised. We believe this new report will act as a catalyst for enhanced collaboration in coral reef conservation and management strategies across our region,” stated Mr Davetanivalu. “In addition to this effort, SPREP is currently conducting a Pacific coral monitoring assessment to gain a deeper understanding of existing coral monitoring programmes and initiatives. The insights gained will enrich our knowledge base and highlight areas where coral reef monitoring can be improved, as we assist Pacific Island countries in developing the necessary capacities and resources for evidence-based policymaking.” The health of our coral reefs and coastal ecosystems is vital to the stewardship and care of our oceans.
To promote and highlight Pacific leadership and involvement in coral reef conservation and sustainable development, SPREP collaborated with the International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI), which is co-chaired by the General Organisation for Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea (SHAMS) along with several other organisations. This partnership included a high-level breakfast event titled “Coral Reefs and People: Honouring Culture and Advancing Conservation Action for the Pacific Islands,” held on Wednesday, June 10. The event featured notable attendees such as Ms Inger Anderson, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of UNEP; Ms Selina Stead, CEO of the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS); and honourable ministers from the Republic of the Marshall Islands and Palau.
The third UN Ocean Conference, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, will take place in Nice, France, from June 9 to 13, 2025. The main theme of the conference is “Accelerating action and mobilising all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean.” A strong delegation from the Pacific Islands will be present, including leaders from the Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, French Polynesia, Niue, Palau, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Samoa, and Tuvalu. Additionally, representatives from Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu will also participate. The Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) is supporting the Pacific delegations through the One CROP initiative and will provide updates on Pacific-related news from UNOC2025. For more information about the UN Ocean Conference 2025.
