A new study estimates that reef fishes in the Coral Triangle are worth $3 billion, representing 30% of the total value of commercial fisheries in the region, based on datasets gathered from the Food and Agriculture Organization.

This figure is likely an underestimate and does not include the value of small reef fish species consumed by tunas, estimated at $150 million. The study also estimates that coral reef ecosystems in the region support the employment of about 15 million small-scale fishers.

By Nazir Foead
Source: Jakarta Post, October 7, 2013

The APEC Summit in Bali has gathered an impressive selection of world leaders coming together to enhance economic collaboration around sustainable and equitable development.

This is to meet the needs of those increasingly affected by the impacts of climate change, loss of biodiversity, and dwindling natural resources. The location for these critical deliberations illustrates the beauty and challenges that surround these intentions, as Bali sits at the base of the Coral Triangle region.

Source: PNG Post Courier, September 19, 2013

Increases in aquaculture investments and designation of marine protected areas are key strategies that could be adopted to help Pacific Coral Triangle countries adapt to climate change, says a new report from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI).

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer, August 24, 2013

Philippines’ Environment Secretary Ramon Paje said on August 23, 2013 more action was needed to save the reefs of the Coral Triangle, an important marine area encompassing Asia Pacific countries, including the Philippines, in the face of growing threats to their ecosystems from overfishing, pollution, and climate change.