GENEVA, 22 October 2026: The MSC Foundation has provided principal funding for a global scientific assessment which classifies 96% of the world’s shallow-water coral reef ecosystems as Critically Endangered and identifies an extremely high risk of collapse for nearly all assessed ecosystems by 2075.
The findings were released by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) at the United Nations biodiversity conference, COP17, in Yerevan, Armenia.
The first worldwide coral reef assessment conducted under the IUCN Red List of Ecosystems framework involved more than 250 scientists and specialists, drawing on historical observations and climate data from reefs across more than 80 countries and territories.
Global Assessment Identifies Threats to Coral Reefs
The assessment examines warm, shallow-water coral reef ecosystems across 127 tropical and subtropical ecoregions, evaluating the likelihood of ecosystem collapse using historical records, existing conditions and projected climate scenarios.
Its findings highlight risks facing reefs that support marine biodiversity, protect coastlines against storms and erosion, and contribute to fisheries and coastal tourism.
The assessment identifies measures to reduce human pressures on coral reefs, including pollution control, sustainable fisheries management and the expansion of marine protected areas. These measures can support reef recovery and resilience against marine heatwaves.
Dr Grethel Aguilar, IUCN Director General, said:
“Coral reefs are one of the clearest indicators of the ocean’s health. They provide food, shelter and breeding grounds for countless species, protect coastal communities, and sustain vital sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture and coastal tourism. Reefs are under pressure today, but with the right action, they can recover and thrive. Tackling climate change and halting further ocean warming will give them that chance.
Partnerships such as our collaboration with the MSC Foundation show how strategic investment and shared commitment can secure a future for coral reefs, while supporting the well-being and prosperity of the coastal communities that depend on them.”
MSC Foundation Advances Coral Research in The Bahamas
The MSC Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the MSC Group, supports conservation science internationally while implementing its own marine conservation programme at Ocean Cay in The Bahamas.
Its Super Coral Reefs Program works with Bahamian and international scientific partners to investigate heat-tolerant corals, cultivate specimens in underwater nurseries and evaluate restoration outcomes.
The programme has successfully identified and cultivated the critically endangered elkhorn coral, Acropora palmata, a fast-growing reef-building species that provides vital shelter and nursery habitats for marine life.
Daniela Picco, Executive Director of the MSC Foundation, said:
“We invest in global coral reef science because understanding the scale of the threats is essential to protecting these ecosystems. At Ocean Cay in The Bahamas, we are putting scientific research into practice – working with partners to study resilient corals, advance restoration techniques and engage cruise guests and future marine scientists.
By connecting global science with practical action, we can help give coral reefs a fighting chance for the future.”
Marine Conservation Centre Supports Research and Education
The Foundation’s Marine Conservation Center, opened in April 2025, provides facilities for coral research, propagation and educational activities. The centre supports marine science learning opportunities for Bahamian students and researchers, while introducing cruise guests and other visitors to coral reef conservation.
With another marine heatwave affecting reef ecosystems, the Foundation is monitoring nursery-grown corals and implementing measures to protect them from heat stress. Initial observations have indicated encouraging signs of resilience.
The Foundation is also increasing investment in research infrastructure, specialist knowledge, restoration techniques and scientific partnerships.
Source: Official announcement by MSC Cruises on 22 October 2026, Geneva.
