Over the past few decades, there has been a significant decline in global sea turtle populations. Human activities, such as tourism, have resulted in the degradation of nesting beaches. Additionally, the harvesting of sea turtles has led to the majority of sea turtle species being classified as vulnerable or endangered.
In Matemwe (north-east of Zanzibar) lies the the Zanzibar Reef. This is a shallow coral reef, providing natural breakwaters which buffer shorelines from waves and storms. Their rough surfaces and complex structures disperse the force of incoming waves. This prevents flooding, erosion, property damage and loss of life.
Millions of animals are killed by plastic every year. From birds to fish and other marine organisms, nearly 700 species, including endangered ones, are affected by plastics. Most animal deaths are caused by entanglement or starvation. Almost every species of seabird eats plastic.
In Zanzibar 18% of the population lives below the basic need poverty line. Overfishing and tourism activities increased considerably in the last decade. In this way communities try to provide for themselves. But this also puts intense pressure on the reef: corals are dying and the fish population decreases drastically.
Coral reefs are the rainforests of the sea. An enormous diversity of life is found in the habitats created by corals. Did you know about 25% of the ocean’s fish depends on healthy coral reefs. Fish and other organisms shelter, find food, reproduce and raise their babies in the corals.