The United States leads on SDG 14 through programs that support sustainable use of the ocean and marine resources, marine conservation, ocean science, and sustainable fisheries management.
Sarah O’Gorman, Red Sea Diving Safari for USAID
Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development
Worldwide, coral reefs provide an important ecosystem for marine life, protect coastlines from storms and erosion, and are central to the livelihoods of millions of people. Covering over 150 square miles, the Red Sea contains one of the longest continuous living reefs in the world, and its uniquely resilient corals are essential to global reef survival as the planet’s oceans warm.
The Red Sea coast is one of Egypt’s most breathtaking natural wonders. With year-round sunshine, stunning underwater sights, and calm blue waters, the Red Sea draws millions of tourists every year. However, these marine ecosystems have been stressed by climate change, coastal development, tourist activity, and overfishing.
In 1992, 12 members of the Red Sea diving community came together and brainstormed a solution to reduce impacts on these reefs: a permanent mooring buoy system that would give boats a place to anchor other than the reefs. This led to the creation of the Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association, or HEPCA.
Since the 1990s, USAID and HEPCA have partnered to protect Egypt’s natural resources and educate Egyptians and tourists on the importance of environmental conservation efforts. HEPCA estimates that the destruction of coral reefs along Egypt’s Red Sea coastline would have been 70 percent higher without this collaboration and support.
USAID’s work on the Red Sea continues. At the UNFCCC’s Climate Conference (COP27) in November 2022, USAID announced the Egyptian Red Sea Initiative, with an initial investment of up to $15 million. This new initiative will mobilize finance and action to protect the Red Sea’s coral reef and coastal ecosystem for future generations while promoting high-value, low impact ecotourism, and fostering economic development into local communities.