Scientists measure how land pollution hurts reef

We know it as the Belize Barrier Reef, but when you add the coral formations to the north and south the entire system is referred to scientifically in broader terms. But more important than the name is the concept: that is, the marine environment in this corner of the Caribbean does not respect political boundaries. What happens in one country strongly affects the others. Today researchers presented the results of their studies, and as News Five’s Kendra Griffith reports, what we do on our land is slowly poisoning our sea.

Kendra Griffith, Reporting
Extending from the Yucatan peninsula to Honduras, the Mesoamerican Reef system comprises approximately seven hundred miles and is the largest reef in the western hemisphere. The natural resource is the combined responsibility of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras, but due to global warming, increased pressure from tourism, and in particular bad land practices, the system is being threatened.

Liza Agudelo, Project Coordinator, ICRAN