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The Challenge Spanning Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste, the “Coral Triangle” is one of the world’s most biologically diverse marine areas. The region, sometimes referred to as the “Amazon of the Sea” for the vast array of species it houses, is comprised of 6 million square kilometers of ocean and coasts, and contains 30% of the world’s coral reefs, 75% of all coral species, and the largest expanse of mangrove forests on Earth. Today, however, this rich natural landscape is in danger. The Coral Triangle’s marine and coastal resources – and the goods and services they provide – are threatened by over-fishing, blast and cyanide fishing, sedimentation and other forms of pollution from coastal development, poor agricultural practices and deforestation, and ocean acidification due to global climate change. These factors are adversely affecting the region’s fish, coral and mangroves, as well as the 120 million people whose livelihoods are dependent on these resources.
USAID's Response To address these problems, USAID has pledged $40 million to support the Coral Triangle Initiative, an innovative, cross-border undertaking that will support promote sustainable fisheries and coastal resource management programs in East Timor, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, and the Solomon Islands, whose governments have come together to address this problem in a striking demonstration of political will and international cooperation.
Project Impact The majority of these funds will support the work of a consortium of NGOs, including the World Wildlife Fund, The Nature Conservancy, and Conservation International to work with government and private-sector partners to strengthen local governance, protect livelihoods, promote eco-tourism, and protect reefs and mangroves in order to lessen storm damage to coastal communities. Along with support from CTI’s other partners, USAID’s support will be crucial in ensuring that future generations continue to have the opportunity to enjoy this natural treasure.
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