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Protecting Coral Reefs

ALEXIS ROSENFELD—GETTY IMAGES

Pollution and a warming planet are destroying coral reefs. Here is what you can do to help.

Reduce, reuse, recycle.

(Above) Plastic and other trash are harming the ocean. Use less plastic. Recycle what you can.

Hands off!

ANDRE SEALE—VW PICS/UNIVERSAL IMAGES GROUP/GETTY IMAGES

Coral reefs are delicate. Look, but do not touch. Stepping on or touching coral can hurt it.

Use a safe sunscreen.

DANILO ANDJUS—GETTY IMAGES

Sunscreen can contain chemicals that harm coral. Look for bottles marked “reef-safe.”

Fight climate change.

ARIEL SKELLEY

Walk. Bike. Reduce the greenhouse gas you produce. The planet will thank you.