Coral reefs are essential to maritime ecosystems, and World Reef Awareness Day helps people understand the importance of corals for the natural environment. Corals play a crucial role in regulating the oxygen levels in water and preserving various species of living organisms. Join eco-events scheduled for June 1.
History
Corals have existed for over 500 million years. They began as single organisms, gradually forming colonies. During the ice age, corals disappeared en masse but reemerged in the Devonian period as the climate warmed. Over time, they alternated between periods of renewal and extinction due to unstable natural conditions. The Great Barrier Reef in Australia began forming 20 million years ago. It was discovered by navigator James Cook in 1770. Today, the reef is protected by local authorities due to the imminent threat of its decline or complete disappearance. By 2016, a third of the reef had already been destroyed. World Reef Awareness Day was created to bring attention to this critical issue and encourage activism.
Interesting Facts
The death of corals is caused by climate change and human activity, including the use of sunscreen that washes into the water and damages coral ecosystems.
- Coral reefs are home to 25% of marine organisms, providing both shelter and a vital food source.
- Australia enforces strict laws to protect its reefs, hosting around one million divers annually under environmental regulations.
- The Great Barrier Reef is home to the green sea turtle and a rare species of whale.
Did you know the Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven natural wonders of the world? This unique ecosystem cannot be restored if lost.
How to Take Part
The best way to celebrate World Reef Awareness Day is by joining ecological societies dedicated to protecting nature.
Make a donation and encourage friends to follow rules during reef tours. It is forbidden to harm coral systems, remove corals from their habitats, or fish near reefs.
Scuba diving near reefs is allowed, and volunteers often undergo training to safely explore the stunning underwater sights.
Reefs are disappearing, and immediate action is necessary to preserve them. If not, we face an ecological disaster, including water pollution, global warming, ozone depletion, and the extinction of many species of fish, shellfish, and plankton.
When is World Reef Awareness Day in 2025?
World Reef Awareness Day is observed on June 1 each year.
Observations
| Weekday | Month | Day | Year |
| Sunday | June | 1 | 2025 |
| Monday | June | 1 | 2026 |
| Tuesday | June | 1 | 2027 |
| Thursday | June | 1 | 2028 |
| Friday | June | 1 | 2029 |
