A framework for understanding climate change impacts on coral reef social–ecological systems

Abstract

International audienceCorals and coral-associated species are highly vulnerable to the emerging effects of global climate change. The widespread degradation of coral reefs, which will be accelerated by climate change, jeopardizes the goods and services that tropical nations derive from reef ecosystems. However, climate change impacts to reef social–ecological systems can also be bi-directional. For example, some climate impacts, such as storms and sea level rise, can directly impact societies, with repercussions for how they interact with the environment. This study identifies the multiple impact pathways within coral reef social–ecological systems arising from four key climatic drivers: increased sea surface temperature, severe tropical storms, sea level rise and ocean acidification. We develop a novel framework for investigating climate change impacts in social–ecological systems, which helps to highlight the diverse impacts that must be considered in order to develop a more complete understanding of the impacts of climate change, as well as developing appropriate management actions to mitigate climate change impacts on coral reef and people

Differential climate impacts for policy-relevant limits to global warming: the case of 1.5 °C and 2 °C

“…These projected losses will greatly affect societies, which depend on coral reefs as a primary source of ecosystem services, e.g. in the fishery and tourism sector (Cinner et al, 2016). Teh et al (2013) estimate that about 25 % of the world's small-scale fishers fish on coral reefs.…”

Bright spots among the world’s coral reefs

“…2). The latter is particularly worrisome in the context of climate change, which is likely to lead to increased coral bleaching and more intense cyclones 16 .…”

“…The long-term viability of coral reefs will ultimately depend on international action to reduce carbon emissions 16 . However, fisheries remain a pervasive source of reef degradation, and effective local-level fisheries governance is crucial to sustaining ecological processes that give reefs the best chance of coping with global environmental change 25 .Seeking out and learning from bright spots has uncovered novel solutions in fields as diverse as human health, development, and business 10,11 , and this approach may offer insights into confronting the complex governance problems facing coupled human-natural systems such as coral reefs.…”

Coral Reefs and People in a High-CO2 World: Where Can Science Make a Difference to People?

“…Coral reef ecosystems create natural barriers that protect shorelines from storm surge and erosion—defending villages, businesses, and coastal residents[2]. Coral reef ecosystems also support fisheries that provide food [3], jobs, and income for local communities [4,5] as well as tourism and recreation that contribute to jobs, profits, taxes, and foreign income[3]. The recreational and cultural services provided by these ecosystems also benefit local communities and people.…”