Coral reefs shield billions in property from storm damage

After hurricanes devastated Puerto Rico in 2017, research revealed that communities near coral reefs faced less destruction, leading to new federal investments in reef restoration.

Saqib Rahim reports for Grist.

In short:

• Puerto Rico received $38.6 million from FEMA to repair coral reefs, marking the first federal disaster grant for reef restoration.
• Scientists estimate U.S. reefs save $1.8 billion in assets annually by reducing coastal flood risks, with states like Florida and Hawai'i particularly benefiting.
• The insurance industry is exploring reef protection as a cost-saving strategy, with pilot programs in Mexico offering rapid restoration funding after storms.

Key quote:

“We’re just trying to save dollars and lives, and do it at a lower cost.”

— Curt Storlazzi, U.S. Geological Survey research geologist

Why this matters:

Coral reefs act as natural barriers against storm surges, reducing flood damage in vulnerable coastal communities. Their protection saves lives and reduces disaster recovery costs, yet climate change and bleaching threaten their survival.

Learn more: Coral reefs that protect Caribbean islands from hurricanes are rapidly declining