International Coral Reef Action Network (ICRAN)

The Indian Ocean tsunami of 2004 and the catastrophic hurricane season in the Gulf of Mexico in 2005 have had tragic and devastating consequences for the global community and have drawn attention to the vulnerability of tropical coastal ecosystems. The lessons learnt from these events are critically relevant to future management of the coast. More than ever it is essential to consider the full value of ‘ecosystem services’ when making decisions about coastal development.

The tsunamis of Sunday 26 December 2004 struck without apparent warning on a clear day. Not only was there a devastating loss of life, but coastal resources and infrastructure in the Indian Ocean suffered massive destruction as well. This book focuses on the impacts on the natural coastal resources, especially the coral reefs and associated ecosystems, and the responses by the international community.