Saudi Arabia takes lead in global coral reef conservation with opening of ICRI secretariat
Saudi Arabia has officially assumed the secretariat of the International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI) for its 14th term, marking a significant milestone in global coral reef conservation. ICRI represents 102 members, including 45 countries that are the custodians of 75% of the world’s coral reefs.
Coral reefs, which are home to 25% of the world’s marine biodiversity, contribute an estimated $9.9 trillion annually in goods and services, underscoring their immense ecological and economic value. ICRI members are working under the leadership of Saudi Arabia to develop the 2025-2027 Action Plan. The plan aims to expand membership to 90% of the world’s coral reefs, integrate resilient reef management into global policies, and strengthen national biodiversity strategies. Key priorities include boosting the blue economy, advancing reef monitoring using innovative technologies, and using the findings of the upcoming ‘Status of Coral Reefs of the World: 2025’ study. Other notable initiatives include the launch of ICRI’s Youth Strategy, strengthening collaboration in the Red Sea, South Asia and East Africa regions, and raising global awareness through major events such as the UN Ocean Conference.
