JOIN THE CHALLENGE TO BENEFIT CORAL!
One of Ocean Conservancy’s three major pillars of work is Biodiversity, which focuses on protecting and advocating for marine life. This year, your exercise could contribute to positive biodiversity protection and restoration–introducing the 3rd Annual EcoAthletes Collegiate Cup, Powered by Protect Where We Play!
NOW SHOWING: ECOATHLETES COLLEGIATE CUP
This challenge unites student-athletes across 28 campuses in a national competition to see who can make the biggest impact. Protect Where We Play is a proud partner this year – here’s what Jenna DiPaolo, Ocean Conservancy Chief Brand and Communications Officer had to say…
“Protect Where We Play’ is a movement to unite the sports and entertainment industries behind a bold shared mission to protect the ocean. We want to appeal to everyone who loves sports and wants to protect our ocean for the next generation. College sports – where the superstars of tomorrow are developing and building strong local influence – are an important part of the ecosystem.”
How does it work? By working out! Competitors log their workouts into a dedicated app, exercise is converted into an environmental currency and that currency funds coral restoration projects. Whichever team exercises the most by Earth Day (April 22) wins! And so does the ocean!
“…Having this as the key environmental benefit of this year’s EcoAthletes Collegiate Cup Powered by Protect Where We Play is a great way not only to make a difference, but also to educate those who might not be aware of the broader positives of coral restoration!”
– Student-athlete Kelsey Klein, Student-Athlete at Rutgers
Coral AS THE ULTIMATE PRODUCTION CREW
It’s time to shine a spotlight on the spectacular coral reefs! Their complex ecosystems mirror a film production crew, with different roles that work together to create something bigger than themselves.
Like a director or producer, coral lay a crucial structure and foundation for entire reef ecosystems. Without their strong leadership, the whole production would collapse! Similar to how a producer plans the timing of productions, coral reefs are responsible for protecting shorelines from severe weather events with their ability to intercept and slow downwaves.
Coral reefs also act as a casting director, bringing in a diverse population of marine species. Although they only make up 1% of the ocean floor, they are home to approximately 25% of all ocean species! They create hiding spots for small fish and act as a feeding ground for larger marine life–just like a casting director selecting the right talent.
They also serve as set designers and cinematographers with their mastery over space in the ocean. Coral creates an environment for different species to live and thrive, with intricate backdrops for the marine stars and extras. And while doing so, their growth creates a visually stunning scene as the sun filters through the water.
FIGHTING FOR REEFS
But, there’s a major threat to this production… 77% of the world’s reef areas are affected by excessive heat stress (NOAA) that causes deadly coral bleaching, and we must protect them before it’s too late. With global (and ocean) warming, coral bleaching has become one of the greatest threats to reef ecosystems, weakening their ability to recover and sustain marine life. To combat this, we need urgent climate action to reduce ocean-warming greenhouse gas emissions.
At the same time, initiatives like the Collegiate Cup allow individuals like you to make a tangible impact. By logging your exercise during the Collegiate Cup challenge, you can directly support coral restoration efforts. Restoration increases the resilience of coral reefs to rapidly warming oceans. By identifying, propagating and outplanting resilient coral strains, researchers are helping coral reefs adapt and thrive.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Are you ready to take the leading role in helping to protect our coral reefs? There’s lots of ways to get involved:
- Join Team Ocean
- Participate in the EcoAthletes Collegiate Cup
- When you get the opportunity to see coral reefs, make sure to avoid contact, choose reef-safe sunscreen products and do your research on locally owned reef-friendly tour operators (check out more ideas here)
