Tsunami Data Point to Value of Reefs in Warming Era

by Christopher Joyce, NPR

Scientists who have studied the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami conclude that coral reefs helped to save many people. Recent computer models have confirmed what eyewitnesses reported: Shorelines behind reefs fared much better. That raises both the value of reefs as well as alarm over their rapid disappearance. And with climate change expected to raise sea levels, the data also suggest that reefs might help protect low-lying areas from higher wave surges.

Broadcast Dates

• All Things Considered, December 26, 2006