Protecting and restoring Florida’s coral reefs is an environmental and economic necessity

The prolonged heat wave experienced last summer in Florida triggered a devastating phenomenon: coral began expelling their life-sustaining algae, turning white and dying in a process known as coral bleaching. Two kinds of coral species, elkhorn and staghorn—critical branching types that grow at the reef’s top—serve as vital natural defenses against storms. The implications extend far beyond the ocean waters and scientists are hard at work trying to save critical coral species.

While you might think saving the coral is purely a tree-hugging exercise, the economic protection provided by coral reefs is a critical yet often overlooked aspect of Florida’s coastal resilience. Coral reefs act as natural barriers, shielding coastal communities from the devastating effects of hurricanes and tropical storms, which are becoming increasingly frequent and severe due to climate change.

Functioning as nature’s breakwaters, coral reefs dissipate wave energy, reducing the force of incoming storms. This protection is particularly vital in areas prone to tropical cyclones, such as South Florida. By dampening wave action, reefs help prevent coastal erosion, protect beaches, and minimize flooding in low-lying areas. We aren’t exactly a state that can turn away any added bit of storm protection.

Recently, scientists have been able to identify these reefs protect the South Florida economy by as much as $657 million annually between Fort Lauderdale and Miami. And during a severe storm that price can rise as much as $1.6 billion.

Overall the reefs contribute between $678.8 million and $1.3 billion to the economy, underscoring the ecology and economics being interconnected. This isn’t just about property values; it’s about preserving livelihoods. Florida’s tourism industry, which is vital to the Sunshine State’s economy, relies on healthy coral reefs. The coral reefs attract divers, snorkelers, and marine enthusiasts from around the world and, according to NOAA estimates, amounts to $577.5 million from recreational diving and snorkeling and $31.2 million from commercial fishing. Without these reefs, the state’s tourism revenue would take a significant hit, cascading through local businesses, from hotels to restaurants to retail.

The economic benefits of Florida’s coral reefs are clear, but the real stakes go far beyond dollars and cents. These ecosystems are the foundation upon which entire coastal communities have been built. The reefs don’t just draw tourism revenues – they shield homes and businesses from the full force of hurricanes and storm surges. As climate change continues to put stress on these fragile systems, the risks to local economies and way of life only grow.

The bleaching events caused by last summer’s prolonged heat wave are a stark reminder of the fragile balance we’re up against. As coral reefs weaken, so does our frontline defense against the forces of nature, impacting everything from property values to job security. Protecting and restoring Florida’s coral reefs is not just an environmental imperative; it’s an economic necessity.

The future of Florida’s economy and its coastal communities may very well depend on the survival of its coral reefs. Without them, we’re left vulnerable, not just to the wrath of the next storm, but to an economic downturn that could reverberate through the entire state.

Originally written for and published on The Invading Sea.