A new study on coral reef risk reduction confirms organism's abilities as possible defense against storms and waves.

The study, published on May 13 in the bi-monthly publication Nature Communications, revealed that coral reefs are more advantageous in protecting coastlines against storm surge and waves compared to artificial defense.

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Marine scientist Michael Beck led an international team of experts in researching and cross-analyzing data on coral reef risk reduction across all types of cases, from the weakest waves to tsunami-strength ones that were ever published.

Data uncovered showed proof that coral reefs were able to disperse wave strengths by up to 97 percent.

Fellow scientist and researcher from Stanford University, Fiorenza Micheli, said that this is a significant number and as such, would greatly reduce damage of waves coming toward unprotected coastlines.

In support of this finding, coral reefs were also found to be cheaper and planet-friendly than their artificial counterparts. Experts said that average costs for the construction of an artificial barrier along the coastline would be around US$19,791 per meter, while coral reef restoration projects would only cost US$1,290 per meter.

With regard to maintenance of these defenses, coral reefs still win on the cost-effectiveness department. Although damage to coral reefs can be caused by acidification and climate change, healthy coral reefs have the ability to heal themselves.

Data shows that 200 million people around the world live in coastal areas where they are constantly under threat from tsunami and storm surges, making it extremely impiortant for governments to protect their coastlines. 

Studies also show that at least two-third of the world's coral reef population are in danger, which underscores the need for more serious reef restoration programs.

Given these numbers, Beck remains positive that there is still a chance for the use of these organisms as defenses along coastlines. Currently, Beck and his team are gearing up to work toward a coral reef restoration project in Grenada.

TagsScience, Environment, Waves, Tsunami, Storm