Cost-benefit study confirms coral reef restoration could be a cost-effective way to save lives and money
Researchers developed a modeling system to quantify the value coral reef restoration could provide to 1,000 kilometers, or 621 miles, of coastline in Florida and Puerto Rico. The research compared how much flooding storms could cause with and without coral reef restoration at a 10 square meter, or 108 square feet, resolution. Researchers then determined how many people and how much property and economic activity reef restoration could protect by preventing coastal flooding. "Coral reefs are natural coastal barriers that can substantially reduce coastal flooding and erosion,” said Curt Storlazzi, lead author and research geologist from the U.S. Geological Survey.
Hope Lives as Lahaina Heals and Plans the Next Steps
Hope Lives as Lahaina Heals and Plans the Next Steps LAHAINA, Hawaiʻi – For longtime Lahaina resident Kim Ball, the sound of construction echoing along Komo Mai Street is a welcome harbinger of renewal. Already, the foundation of his new home is emerging from the outlines of the one destroyed by wildfires last August. Standing on his property, Ball can also see the work beginning on his neighbor’s house. Down the hill, another new home is further along. Its roof is already in place. Ball, who owns Hi-Tech Surf Sports on Maui, is among the first Lahaina homeowners to start rebuilding.