International Declaration of Reef Rights Signed By Citizens Of 157 Countries

In honor of the International Year of the Reef 2008, Reef Check launched the International Declaration of Reef Rights in March 2007. This worldwide campaign highlighted the significance of coral reefs and encouraged all people and governments to support coral reef conservation. The campaign was a great success! Citizens from 157 countries signed the Declaration, as well as many leaders in government, science, and art. Dignitaries and celebrities who supported the reefs included: American Samoa Governor Togiola T.A. Tulafono; Malaysia Secretary-General of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment Datuk Suboh Mohd Yassin; President of the Republic of Palau Tommy E. Remengesau, Jr.; President of the Federated States of Micronesia Emanual Mori; and President of the Republic of the Marshall Islands Kessai Note. Renowned oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle, actress Daryl Hannah, and artist Wyland also signed the Declaration, the first two doing so in an underwater ceremony off the coast of Southern California.

Reef Check plans to present the list of almost 25,000 names to United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon as well as leaders of coral reef countries. This list will demonstrate the global commitment of citizens across the world to the cause of reef conservation.

Also, be sure to check out all the inspiring comments we received from across the globe.