Publix Supports Coral Reef Awareness

Over the last two years, Publix has provided more than $200,000 for coral reef protection projects. NPS IMAGE BY SHAUN WOLFE / COURTESY PHOTO

Coral reefs are home to some of the largest living structures on Earth.

Publix is supporting these habitats by providing funding to help protect, conserve and restore coral reefs around Florida.

Over the last two years, the company has provided more than $200,000 for coral reef protection projects.

“At Publix, we’re doing good for the environment, and that includes donating to organizations like National Park Foundation, which facilitates work to remove marine debris and improve the health of coral reefs in the Florida Reef Tract,” says Publix Director of Environmental and Sustainability Programs Michael Hewett. “Through this funding, local projects in Biscayne National Park and Dry Tortugas National Park will have resources to expand and enhance restoration of these important ecosystems.”

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, around 25% of the fish in the ocean depend on coral reefs to survive. They play a critical role in providing an important nursery for juvenile fish and crustaceans.

A large portion of the Florida Reef Tract is located within the boundaries of Biscayne National Park. In recent years, the area has been heavily affected by heat waves, hurricanes and the ongoing outbreak of stony coral tissue loss disease.

Publix’s donations have supported coral reef restoration projects at Biscayne National Park, including researching and monitoring 25 coral species and collecting and transplanting 78 storm- damaged corals.

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