Abstract
Coral reefs are among the most biologically diverse and valuable ecosystems on Earth, offering ecological, economic, and cultural services. While widespread threats such as climate change, ocean acidification, and overfishing are well-documented, a number of lesser-known yet significant stressors—including noise pollution, light pollution, chemical contaminants, microplastics, underwater infrastructure, and sediment displacement—pose increasing risks to reef sustainability. This paper explores the effects of these under recognized threats on coral reef health and outlines both conventional and innovative mitigation strategies. By leveraging environmental impact assessments, marine protected areas, best management practices, and fostering international collaboration, a more holistic and sustainable conservation framework can be developed. Implementing these strategies effectively will enhance reef resilience and support long-term ecological balance for future generations.
KEYWORDS
Coral Reefs, Environmental Impact, Conservation Strategies, Marine Protected Areas, Sustainable Development, Reef Restoration.
Minal Naz Khan¹, Vatsala Pawar²*
¹School of Language, Literature and Society, Jaipur National University, Jaipur-302017, Rajasthan, India
²Department of Chemistry, Jaipur National University, Jaipur-302017, Rajasthan, India