Oceans cover 70% of the world’s surface and contain some of the most remote ecosystems on earth. Human activity is threatening natural marine resources, with coastal zones under the most pressure.

WCMC’s marine programme maps the extent of coral reefs, and studies the influence of disease, temperature rise and global trade. The programme has also developed detailed digital maps of mangroves.

Other research areas provide data and biodiversity reports for oil spill and coastal sensitivity analysis, and marine species mapping which includes an interactive database of turtle nesting sites.