Aqaba, June 10 (Petra) Dina Mahadin - The Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) launched the "Coral 157" campaign on Wednesday, coinciding with World Coral Reef Day. The initiative is part of the Aqaba Marine Biodiversity Conservation Project, implemented in cooperation with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Jordan and with support from the Canadian Government.

The campaign aims to raise public awareness about the dangers of plastic and microplastic waste to coral reefs and marine ecosystems in the Gulf of Aqaba.

The name "Coral 157" refers to the 157 species of hard coral found in the Gulf of Aqaba, one of the most unique marine ecosystems in the world.

The campaign's slogan, "Don't Let It Go 156", carries an awareness message urging the protection of this unique natural resource and the avoidance of behaviors and practices that could lead to the degradation of coral reefs or the loss of any of their species.

The campaign included a beach cleanup activity in the Al-Mamlah area of ​​the Aqaba Marine Reserve and the seabed, with the participation of divers, fishermen, representatives of security agencies, community initiatives, women's and youth committees, and local community organizations.

It reflects a growing awareness of the importance of protecting and preserving coral reefs as an essential part of Aqaba's environmental identity.

Nidal Al Oran, Commissioner for Environment and Public Safety at ASEZA said scientific findings recorded in the Gulf of Aqaba demonstrate the exceptional resilience of coral reefs in the face of climatic pressures. He noted that bleaching effects remained very limited despite prolonged exposure to marine heat stress in 2024.

"This reinforces the importance of continuing joint efforts to protect this unique natural heritage and maintain Aqaba's standing as one of the world's leading climate havens for coral reefs," he pointed out.

//Petra//SS