How can coral restoration contribute to mitigating climate change effects?

Coral restoration plays a significant role in mitigating climate change effects primarily through its ability to sequester carbon and support marine biodiversity. Healthy coral reefs serve as vital ecosystems that contribute to the overall health of the ocean. They absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, therefore aiding in reducing greenhouse gas concentrations. This process of carbon sequestration helps in lessening climate change since excess carbon in the atmosphere is a major contributor to global warming.

Moreover, coral reefs support a diverse array of marine life, which enhances resilience against climate change impacts. By maintaining biodiversity, coral reefs can better withstand and recover from the stresses caused by climate change, such as ocean acidification and rising water temperatures. The interconnectedness of marine ecosystems means that healthy coral populations benefit not just themselves but the larger marine community, leading to more stable and resilient ocean systems.

The other options do not contribute positively to climate change mitigation. For instance, increasing fossil fuel extraction would exacerbate climate change rather than mitigate it. Reducing the area of coral reefs would have the opposite effect of what is desired—leading to less carbon sequestration and loss of marine biodiversity. Similarly, accelerating coastal urban development could lead to habitat destruction, increased pollution, and further degradation of coral reefs, all of which would negatively impact