Environmental analysis finds coral reefs in serious danger

Scientists have been presenting evidence at a climate change conference that suggests that the world's coral reefs will still face extinction, even if strict regulations on greenhouse gases are imposed.

Research shows that global carbon dioxide emissions are increasing at such a rate that scientists trying to save the coral reefs are fighting a losing battle.

Consequently, a radical solution has been put forward - namely to freeze samples of coral species in the hope that they can then be reintroduced in the future.

Speaking to the BBC, Simon Harding from the Zoological Society of London said: "Well, it's the last ditch effort to save biodiversity from the reefs which are extremely diverse systems."

The proposals were put forward at a meeting organised by the Global Legislators Organisation for a Balanced Environment (Globe), which is being held in Copenhagen.

The conference has seen legislators from 16 major economies meeting to agree how to move forward in the fight against climate change.

Globe was established in 1989 with the aim of facilitating dialogue between the G8+5 parliaments relating to climate change; energy security; ecosystems, economic and population growth; and land-use change.

Posted by Claire Manning