Kathy Baughman McLeod discusses Time Magazine’s Person of the Year, Greta Thunberg

Coral reefs are invaluable natural assets for coastal communities and economies. They are the first line of defense against storms by reducing wave energy by up to 90% (Ferrario, et al, 2014). Reefs are critical habitat for coastal ecosystems including fisheries, mangroves and sand dune systems. These ecosystem services are just the start of their value when it comes to tourism-centered economies like in Quintana Roo, Mexico where coastal protection is vital and reducing beach erosion is essential - both dependent on the health of the reef. While there are several threats affecting the health – and existence – of reefs, hurricanes can be the most severe for a reef like the Mesoamerican Reef – the second-longest barrier reef system in the world – stretched along the Mexican Caribbean coast.

Listen to Kathy Baughman McLeod explain how communities are addressing climate change in this podcast with Green Connections Radio host Joan Michelson.