Humans
Coral reefs provide economic goods and ecosystem services worth about $375 billion each year to millions of people. Many countries with coral reefs generate significant portions of their income through tourism. Studies show that on average, countries with coral reef industries derive more than half of their gross national product from them.
AFor example, take Bonaire, a small Caribbean island. Bonaire earns about USD $23 million annually from coral reef activities, yet managing its marine park costs less than $1 million per year. The variety of marine life and protected beaches supported by coral reefs provide an inviting setting for sightseers, sunbathers, snorkelers, and scuba divers. In fact, there are more than 8.5 million certified scuba divers in the United States who spend money on dive vacations each year. In 1997, the State of Florida earned USD $1.6 billion from coral reef and beach-related tourism. For residents of coral reef areas who depend on income from tourism, reef destruction creates a significant loss of employment in the tourism, marine recreation, and sport fishing industries.
Coral reefs are also a significant source of protein for millions of people. For people who live in coral reef areas, coral reefs are part of their lives. Reefs are directly linked with their traditional, spiritual, and cultural values.