Reef managers struggle to maintain a balance between use and conservation of coral reefs worldwide. We do not know enough about the fundamental factors affecting coral reefs in many areas to make practical management decisions. Nor do we have sufficient understanding to plan for changes brought about by the transformation of these ecosystems — especially during the next 30 years.
For this reason, a major focus of the CRTR Program is to build capacity in countries with coral reefs, to develop and sustain a robust research environment that continues to develop practical tools for policy shapers and reef managers.