Rigorously Valuing the Role of U.S. Coral Reefs in Coastal Hazard Risk Reduction

Overview

This report provides a comprehensive assessment of the role coral reefs play in reducing coastal hazard risks across the United States. Using rigorous flood, wave, and economic impact modeling, the study quantifies how coral reefs reduce wave energy, limit coastal flooding, and protect people, property, and infrastructure from storm related hazards. The analysis evaluates flood damages under current reef conditions and compares them with scenarios in which reefs are degraded or absent to estimate the value of reef based protection. Findings show that coral reefs generate substantial annual benefits by reducing flood risk, preventing economic losses, and protecting thousands of residents and businesses in vulnerable coastal areas. The study also demonstrates that healthy reefs provide critical ecosystem services beyond coastal protection, including support for fisheries, tourism, biodiversity, and community resilience. By translating reef protection benefits into economic terms, the report provides valuable information for decision makers, resource managers, insurers, and coastal planners. The findings strengthen the case for investing in coral reef conservation, restoration, and nature based solutions as cost effective strategies for climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and long term coastal resilience throughout the United States.