Jump to main content or area navigation.

Contact Us

ReefLink Database

Corporate Responses

Corporate Responses

Corporate responses are the general reaction of private corporations and businesses to different issues, such as environmental responsibility. Corporate responses to environmental responsibility vary from no response at all, to companies publishing annual reports about their efforts to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, to incorporating environmentally responsible practices into their business model.

CMap

Economic markets and policies can influence financing and insurance, as well as drive consumer demand for certain types of goods and services. Ecosystem services are the benefits people obtain from ecosystems . The Finance and Insurance sector is primarily involved in financial transactions and facilitating such financial transactions. The Food and Raw Materials sector includes groups that harvest natural resources from the earth, including agriculture, aquaculture, fishing, forestry, mining, and the oil and gas industry. Infrastructural policies are responses, including zoning, codes, or regulations, that impact the distribution and functioning of socio-economic sectors that provide infrastructure. Infrastructural sectors provide the physical, organizational, and technical support for the economy to function, including construction, utilities, transportation, finance, manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade, and technical services. Landscape Changes are alterations of the natural landscape through human activities, including coastal development, shoreline armoring, impervious surfaces, deforestation, or soil disturbance, which can alter water flow patterns and lead to pollutant runoff into coastal systems. Industries in the Manufacturing and Trade subsector produce and sell food, beverage, tobacco, wood, plastics, chemical products, metals, electronics, and machinery products, in both wholesale and retail trade. Manufacturing and trade regulations are laws and policies enacted to control  production, distribution, and sale of goods and services. The Reef Ecosystem includes a suite of abiotic variables that form the physical and chemical environment. Pressures are human activities that create stress on the environment. Provisioning services are the products or ecosystem goods obtained from ecosystems, including seafood, genetic and biochemical resources, pharmaceuticals, ornamental resources, and water resources. The state of the Reef Ecosystem is the condition, in terms of quantity and quality, of the abiotic and biotic components including physical, chemical, and biological variables. Reef Life is the abundance, distribution, and condition of the biological components of the coral reef ecosystem. Regulating Services are benefits obtained from ecosystem processes that regulate the environment, including erosion regulation, natural hazard regulation, and climate regulation. Responses are actions taken by groups or individuals in society and government to prevent, compensate, ameliorate or adapt to changes in Ecosystem Services or their perceived value. Shelter includes sectors that provide for the comfort and protection of humans in relation to their living spaces. Socio-Economic Drivers include the sectors that fulfill human needs for Food & Raw Materials, Water, Shelter, Health, Culture, and Security, and the Infrastructure that supports the sectors. Supporting services are ecological processes that indirectly benefit humans by maintaining a functional ecosystem for the production of other ecosystem goods and services. The Transportation Sector involves comprises all modes of transportation (Aviation, Maritime, Mass Transit, Highway, Freight Rail, and Pipeline) The Transportation Systems Sector is segmented into six key subsectors, or modes, which operate independently within both a regulated and non-regulated environment, yet are also highly interdependent. Transportation management includes policies, regulations, and zoning designed to control the distribution and intensity of transportation networks, including roads and shipping channels, and vehicles, including cars, boats, and ships. Utilities specialize in providing basic services for public use, including telecommunications, water systems, natural gas, electric power, and waste management. Utility policies are those that put controls on delivery of utilities to human populations. Waste Management Policies include legislation and restrictions and guidelines for the environmentally safe and healthy management and disposal of waste. Water utilities policies are policies that place requirements on water to used for public consumption or use in irrigation. Civil Engineering and Construction specializes in the design and construction of infrastructure, including buildings and homes, roads, utility lines, and ports. Construction codes and regulations control the location, number, and development of construction projects, including buildings, homes, and coastal structures. Contact Uses, such as biological additions, physical damage, and biological harvesting, are activities in which humans create pressures through direct contact with the ecosystem. Corporate responses are the general reaction of private corporations and businesses to different issues, such as environmental responsibility. Cultural services are the nonmaterial benefits people obtain from ecosystems through spiritual enrichment, cognitive development, recreational opportunities, aesthetic experiences, sense of place, and educational and research opportunities. Culture sectors contribute to the social, emotional, and intellectual well-being of the community. Discharges are the intentional or unintentional distribution of chemicals, debris, or other pollution, into the environment as a consequence of human activities.

CMap Description

A change in the provision of ecosystem services, or a desire to improve provision of ecosystem services, may elicit responses to manage the distribution and functioning of socio-economic sectors that provide infrastructure. Infrastructure sectors, including transportation, utilities, construction, and manufacturing, create pressures on the reef ecosystem primarily through pollutant discharges and landscape changes, including devegetation, impervious surfaces, and soil disturbance that can effect rates of pollutant runoff. In coastal areas, development may require shoreline armoring or dredging activities, which can directly impact coastal vegetation and alter patterns of water flow. Consumer demand can pressure corporations to change their behavior or adopt environmentally friendly practices. Responsible business practices are increasingly being adopted by companies worldwide though there are significant differences between regions. Corporate responses include policy, environmental management systems (EMS), reporting, and performance tracking. Infrastructure sectors benefit from reef ecosystem services, including shoreline protection, the availability of seafood, and recreational opportunities that drive coastal development and the need for infrastructure.

Citations

Citation Year Study Location Study Type Database Topics
Principe, P., P. Bradley, S. Yee, W. Fisher, E. Johnson, P. Allen, and D. Campbell. 2012. Quantifying Coral Reef Ecosystem Services. EPA/600/R-11/206, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC. 2012 Global Aquarium & Pet Trade; Aquarium Stock; Beach & Land Formation; Carbon Storage & Cycling; Complex Habitat & Resources; Corporate Responses; Cultural Policies; Cultural Protections; Cultural Services; Existence Value & Sense of Place; Fish; Landscape Conservation & Restoration; Mangroves; Monetary Valuation; Ornamental Jewelry & Art; Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics; Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics Sources; Provisioning Services; Regulating Services; Seagrasses; Shoreline Protection; Supporting Services; Tourism & Recreation; Valuation
Wu, W., X. H. Wang, D. Paull, and J. Kesby. 2010. Defence force activities in marine protected areas: environmental management of Shoalwater Bay Training Area, Queensland, Australia. Chinese Journal of Oceanology and Limnology 28:667-676. 2010 Global; Australia Decision Support Frameworks & Tools Corporate Responses; Marine Protected Areas; Military; Special Use Permitting
Layke, C. 2009. Measuring nature�s benefits: a preliminary roadmap for improving ecosystem service indicators. 2009 Index or Indicator; Decision Support Frameworks & Tools Climate; Climate Regulation; Corporate Responses; Existence Value & Sense of Place; Provisioning Services; Regulating Services; Social Organizations; Special Use Permitting
Moltu, U. E. and L. Pinturier. 2008. Zero harmful impact from drilling discharges: Where are the limits? Pages 988-1002 in Society of Petroleum Engineers - 9th International Conference on Health, Safety and Environment in Oil and Gas Exploration and Production 2008 - \In Search of Sustainable Excellence\"". 2008 Field Study & Monitoring; Model; Decision Support Frameworks & Tools Corporate Responses; Discharges; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Oil & Gas Research & Exploration; Sediment; Toxics
Prince, J. D., H. Peeters, H. Gorfine, and R. W. Day. 2008. The novel use of harvest policies and rapid visual assessment to manage spatially complex abalone resources (Genus Haliotis). Fisheries Research 94:330-338. 2008 Australia Model; Index or Indicator Corporate Responses; Fishing Sector
WBCSD, WRI, and Meridian Institute. 2008. The corporate ecosystem services review: guidelines for identifying business risks and opportunities arising from ecosystem change. World Resources Institute, Washington DC. 2008 Global Review Biochemical & Genetic Resources; Climate; Corporate Responses; Special Use Permitting; Wetlands
World Bank Group. 2008. Biodiversity, Climate Change, and Adaptation. Nature based solutions from the world bank portfolio. The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Washington, DC. 2008 Global; South & Central America; Iran; Caribbean Field Study & Monitoring; GIS & Maps Agriculture; Banks, Credit, & Securities; Climate; Corporate Responses; Discharges; Funding & Donations; Funding & Incentives; Invasive Species; Irrigation; Landscape Conservation & Restoration; Sewage Treatment; Waste Management; Waste Management Policies
Merritt, R. 2007. MPAA's top cop quits, hopes to land corporate gig. Electronic Engineering Times 1469:36-38. 2007 Europe Corporate Responses; Internet & Telecommunications
LeDrew, E. and A. Lim. 2005. The application of the getis statistic to high resolution imagery to detect change in the spatial structure of submerged tropical corals between image dates. Pages 217-219 in Proceedings of the Third International Workshop on the Analysis of Multi-Temporal Remote Sensing Images 2005. 2005 Remote Sensing Collaboration & Partnering; Corporate Responses
[No author name available]. 2003. News: Barents Sea under threat from oil developments. Marine Pollution Bulletin 46:681-682. 2003 Corporate Responses; Marine Birds; Oil & Gas Industry; Petroleum Spills; Pipelines; Whales & Dolphins
Haley, M. and A. Clayton. 2003. The role of NGOs in environmental policy failures in a developing country: The mismanagement of Jamaica's coral reefs. Environmental Values 12:29-54. 2003 Jamaica Corporate Responses; Finfish Harvest; Funding & Donations; Funding & Incentives
Francis, J., A. Nilsson, and D. Waruinge. 2002. Marine protected areas in the Eastern African Region: How successful are they? Ambio 31:503-511. 2002 Kenya; Tanzania; Mozambique; Comoros; Madagascar; Seychelles; Mauritius Review; Index or Indicator Banks, Credit, & Securities; Coastal Development; Corporate Responses; Infrastructural Policies; Infrastructure; Marine Protected Areas; Special Use Permitting
Gibbs, B. 2000. Offshore structure abandonment: Solutions for an aging industry. Sea Technology 41:25-32. 2000 South & Central America; Mexico Artificial Habitat; Corporate Responses; Fish; Utility Policies; Water Depth & Sea Level
Dauterive, L. 1999. Rigs-to reefs policy, progress, and perspective. Pages 313-318 in SPE/EPA Exploration & Production Environmental Conference. 1999 South & Central America; Mexico Artificial Habitat; Corporate Responses; Funding & Incentives; Oil & Gas Rigs; Valuation
Kasprzak, R. A. 1998. Use of oil and gas platforms as habitat in Louisiana's artificial reef program. Gulf of Mexico Science 16:37-45. 1998 Artificial Habitat; Banks, Credit, & Securities; Coastal Defense; Corporate Responses; Finfish Harvest; Natural Gas & Electric Power; Oil & Gas Industry; Oil & Gas Rigs; Security Policies; Special Use Permitting; Utility Policies
Attwood, C. G., J. M. Harris, and A. J. Williams. 1997. International experience of marine protected areas and their relevance to South Africa. South African Journal of Marine Science 311-332. 1997 South Africa Field Study & Monitoring Corporate Responses; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Finfish Harvest; Fishing Sector; Mangroves; Marine Protected Areas; Trawling & Fishing Gear Damage
Dight, I. J. and L. M. Scherl. 1997. The International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI): Global priorities for the conservation and management of coral reefs and the need for partnerships. Coral Reefs 16. 1997 Global Collaboration & Partnering; Corporate Responses; Resource Use Management
Hatziolos, M. 1997. Coral reefs and the World Bank. People & the planet / IPPF, UNFPA, IUCN 6:30-31. 1997 Global; Australia Corporate Responses; Marine Protected Areas
Pope, D. L., T. F. Moslow, and J. B. Wagner. 1993. Geological and technological assessment of artificial reef sites, Louisiana outer continental shelf. Ocean and Coastal Management 20:121-145. 1993 GIS & Maps Artificial Habitat; Commercial Fisheries; Corporate Responses; Fishing Sector; Oil & Gas Rigs; Pipelines; Sediment
Ausubel, J. H. 1992. Industrial ecology: Reflections on a colloquium. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 89:879-884. 1992 Corporate Responses
Frosch, R. A. 1992. Industrial ecology: A philosophical introduction. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 89:800-803. 1992 Corporate Responses
Jelinski, L. W., T. E. Graedel, R. A. Laudise, D. W. McCall, and J. K. N. Patel. 1992. Industrial ecology: Concepts and approaches. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 89:793-797. 1992 Corporate Responses
Kumar, C. and N. Patel. 1992. Industrial ecology. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 89:798-799. 1992 Corporate Responses
Starr, C. 1992. Education for industrial ecology. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 89:868-869. 1992 Corporate Responses
Lemay Michele, H., SO MP ON G Ausavajitanon, and ZE IT LI N Hale Lynne. 1991. National Coral Reef Management Strategy for Thailand. Pages 1698-1712 in Coastal Zone: Proceedings of the Symposium on Coastal and Ocean Management. 1991 Thailand Review Corporate Responses; Fishing Sector; Forestry; Ports & Harbors

Management Options

Management Option Description Sources Database Topics
Agriculture & Aquaculture: Phase Out Unwanted Subsidies Subsidies are often offered to promote certain types of growth and development. At a later time, with changing priorities, it may be determined that these types of growth and development are no longer optimal. For example, sun grown coffee, was subsidized in Guancia Bay, PR, as it was expected to have higher future market demand. However, it requires clearing large tracts of land on steep, extremely erodible clay soils. This leads to high volumes of erosion because there is no vegetation to anchor the soil in place. Now these subsidies are promoting sun grown coffee even though shade grown is better for the land and reefs because it reduces erosion, extreme runoff, and adds vegetation to the land. Center for Watershed Protection. 2008. Guanica Bay watershed management plan.

Agriculture; Agriculture, Aquaculture, & Forestry Policies; Banks, Credit, & Securities; City Planning; Corporate Responses; Decision Support; Economic Markets & Policies; Finance & Insurance; Food & Energy Policies; Food & Raw Materials; Funding & Incentives; Infrastructural Policies; Infrastructure; Landuse Management; Political Pressure; Public Administration; Security; Security & Public Administration Policies
Corporate Response: Standardized Environmental Certifications and Labels Product labeling initiatives are based on the premise that product information represented by or contained on the label is otherwise not readily available (or apparent) and is of value in consumer purchase decisions. For example, warning labels highlight product safety and toxic exposure hazards and advise consumers on ways to minimize risks. Likewise, a number of environmental certification programs (ECPs) identify products' environmental burdens and/or set standards for products' environmental attributes. Properly designed environmental labeling efforts can change consumer and manufacturer attitudes and behaviors, thus reducing environmental burdens. The specific metrics used to measure environmental label effectiveness include: 1) consumer awareness of labels, 2) consumer acceptance of labels (credibility and understanding), 3) changes in consumer behavior, 4) changes in manufacturer behavior, and 5) improvement of end goals, such as environmental quality. Malcohn, E., Bentham Paulos, Andrew Stoeckle, Herbert Han-Pu Wang, and Julie Lynch. Determinants of Effectiveness for Environmental Certification and Labeling Programs. EPA-742-R-94-001, US EPA, Washington, DC.

Agriculture; Agriculture, Aquaculture, & Forestry Policies; Aquaculture; Banks, Credit, & Securities; Climate; CO2; Collaboration & Partnering; Commercial Fisheries; Corporate Responses; Economic Markets & Policies; Environmental Education & Outreach; Fishing Sector; Food & Energy Policies; Food, Beverage, & Tobacco Products; Forestry; Health; Manufacturing & Trade; Manufacturing & Trade Policies; Marine Birds; Medical Care; Medical Centers; Metals, Electronics, & Machinery Products; Resource Use Management; Toxics; Transportation; Utilities; Whales & Dolphins; Wholesale & Retail Trade; Wood, Plastics, & Chemical Products
Corporate Response: Invest & Co-finance Projects Investing and co-financing projects that aim to conserve or restore habitats can be an effective means to preserving reef habitats as well as establishing positive working relationships between organizations. Investing in private sector projects will promote desired businesses and business practices, reducing barriers to entry and competitiveness as compared to traditional businesses and business practices to counterbalance advantages from undesired externalities. World Bank Group. 2008. Biodiversity, Climate Change, and Adaptation. Nature based solutions from the world bank portfolio. The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Washington, DC.

Aquarium Stock; Banks, Credit, & Securities; Biochemical & Genetic Resources; Biomedical Research Policies; Collaboration & Partnering; Corporate Responses; Economic Markets & Policies; Finance & Insurance; Finfish & Shellfish Stock; Food & Raw Materials; Funding & Donations; Funding & Incentives; Manufacturing & Trade; Manufacturing & Trade Policies; Marine Products; Ornamental Jewelry & Art; Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics Sources; Provisioning Services; Resource Use Management; Tourism & Recreation
Corporate Response: Develop Outreach with Local Businesses Information should be provided to business along the water so that employees will be aware of environmentally sensitive business practices. This can be achieved through informative brochures, and distributing other educational materials. These interactions can also be used to inform businesses of opportunities for voluntary certifications (#104). NOAA Marine Sanctuary Program. 2007. Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary revised management plan. National Ocean Service, Key West, FL.

The Coral Reef Alliance (CORAL) the Tour Opperators' Iniative (TOI) and The Center for Environmental Leadership in Business (CELB). 2003. A Practical Guide to Good Practice: Managing Environmental Impacts In The Marine Recreation Sector.

Coastal Development; Collaboration & Partnering; Corporate Responses; Cultural Policies; Entertainment & Accommodation Services; Environmental Education & Outreach; Golf Course Operations; Hotel & Food Services; Infrastructural Policies; Manufacturing & Trade; Wholesale & Retail Trade
Develop & Distribute Educational Materials: Print Marine Etiquette on Marine-Related Products Packaging Printing information on marine-related products regarding proper marine etiquette could be a possibility for raising awareness and improving public stewardship. Partnerships will be explored to help print etiquette information on materials such as bait boxes, ice bags, water buckets, etc. that are commonly used by stakeholders. NOAA Marine Sanctuary Program. 2007. Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary revised management plan. National Ocean Service, Key West, FL.

Collaboration & Partnering; Corporate Responses; Environmental Education & Outreach; Littering; Manufacturing & Trade; Marine Debris; Recreational Fishing; Wholesale & Retail Trade
Economic Markets & Policy: Regulate International Trade of Reef Species Many coral reef species are harvested internationally for a variety of markets including the aquarium trade, food, curios, jewelry and pharmaceuticals. The US is the largest importer for many of these markets. The US strictly limits extraction of stony coral and many reef species in its waters; but as a major importer and consumer of coral reef species, more actions can be taken to decrease the demand on international imports. Setting and enforcing regulations on what can be imported (such as Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species CITES) is one approach that has been taken. More information is needed, leaving room to collect trade data and assess the impacts of extraction techniques to find sustainable methods. Demand for species collected this way will be increased with greater transparency to consumers, which can be accomplished through certifications for environmentally cognoscente collectors and those using alternatives like aquaculture and coral farming. Continued participation in Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI) is also beneficial. U.S. Coral Reef Task Force. 2000. International Trade in Coral and Coral Reef Species: The Role of the United States. Report of the Trade Subgroup of the International Working Group to the U.S. Coral Reef Task Force, Washington, D.C.

World Resource Institute International Marinelife Alliance, editor. 1997. Sullied Seas. WRI, Washington D.C.

U.S. Coral Reef Task Force. 2000. The National Action Plan to Conserve Coral Reefs. Washington, D.C.

Accidental & Illegal Harvest; Aquaculture; Aquarium & Pet Trade; Aquarium Stock; Biological Harvest; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Collaboration & Partnering; Coral; Corporate Responses; Cultural Policies; Designate Protected Species; Economic Markets & Policies; Environmental Education & Outreach; Invertebrate Harvest; Invertebrates; Live Collection; Manufacturing & Trade; Manufacturing & Trade Policies; Marine Products; Ornamental Jewelry & Art; Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics; Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics Sources; Political Pressure; Souvenir & Decorative Trade; Sponges; Stony Coral; Toxics; Wholesale & Retail Trade
Energy Policy & Development: Develop Energy Efficiency Initiatives Energy efficiency is one of the lowest cost strategies for reducing greenhouse gases. Energy efficiency is also one of the few options that actually reduce user costs as well, since using less energy should reduce energy bills. Energy efficiency can be promoted across the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. In the US, the ENERGY STAR program has served as a trusted source of information to help consumers and organizations throughout the nation adopt energy-efficient products and practices. Other ways to incentivize energy improvements include subsidizing (e.g. tax exemption) or issuing lower interest loans for investments in energy use reduction technologies and infrastructure (e.g. more efficient heating/cooling systems). Environmental Protection Agency. ENERGY STAR and Other Climate Protection Partnerships. 2009 Annual Report. US EPA.

Atmospheric Emissions; City Planning; Climate Regulation; CO2; Coal Mining; Construction Codes & Projects; Corporate Responses; Discharges; Economic Markets & Policies; Energy Policy & Development; Food, Beverage, & Tobacco Products; Funding & Incentives; Greenhouse Gas Emissions; Housing; Improved Technology; Landuse Management; Manufacturing & Trade; Metals, Electronics, & Machinery Products; Oil & Gas Industry; Shelter; Utilities; Utility Policies; Wholesale & Retail Trade; Wood, Plastics, & Chemical Products
Environmental Education: Develop Standardized Voluntary Certification Programs This management option involves coordinating with leaders of various target businesses related to diving and snorkeling, marine mammal viewing, kayaking, eco-tours, and fishing. Through collaborations with these businesses, management areas can create a voluntary certification program for employees of these businesses to learn and receive accurate information about nearby corals, the ecosystem, and how they can better protect reefs in their everyday actions. These voluntary certifications can be used to educate employees and/or to develop self-regulating standards for these businesses. Depending on the standards and curriculum, voluntary certification programs can then be used by these businesses to convey knowledge or environmentally safe practices to customers through marketing. Educating employees of these businesses helps to assure that they are disseminating accurate information to visitors. NOAA Marine Sanctuary Program. 2007. Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary revised management plan. National Ocean Service, Key West, FL.

Collaboration & Partnering; Corporate Responses; Cultural Policies; Cultural Services; Culture; Dive, Snorkeling, & Swimming Tourism; Environmental Education & Outreach; Recreational Fishing; Recreational Opportunities; Sectors Filling Human Needs; Security & Public Administration Policies; Socio-Economic Drivers; Tourism & Recreation; Tourism & Recreation Policies

Laws

Legal Citation Purpose of Law Management Organization Database Topics
Clean Water Act of 1974, 33 United States Code § 1252. To restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the Nation's waters

Application to Coral Reefs:The Act can be used to establish water quality standards for the disharge of pollutants into surface waters. Section 101 (3) stated that it will be the national policy that the discharge of toxic pollutants in toxic amounts will be prohibited. The legislation employs a variety of regulatory and nonregulatory tools to reduce direct pollutant discharges into waterways, finance wastewater treatment facilities, and manage polluted runoff. The tools are employed to achieve the broad goal of restoring and maintaining the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nation's waters so they can support "the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and recreation in and on the water."

Legislative Actions:During the late 1980's, the program shifted from program-by-program, source by source, pollutant-by-pollutant approach to more holistic water-shed strategies. Under the watershed approach equal emphasis is placed on protecting healthy waters and restoring impaired waters. Also during the 1980's, voluntary programs for nonpoint runoff and regulatory programs for wet weather point sources began to be addressed.

Comments:The Federal Water Pollution Contrl Act Amendments of 1972, PL 92-500, replaced the previous language of the Act entirely, including the Water Quality Act of 1965, the Clean Water Restoration Act of 1965, and the Water Quality Improvement Act of 1970, all of which had been amendments of the Water Pollution Control Act first passed in 1956. The 1977 amendments, PL 95-217, further amended PL 92-500.
US Environmental Protection Agency

Jurisdiction:
United States; US Territories
Agriculture, Aquaculture, & Forestry Policies; Biocriteria; Collaboration & Partnering; Construction Codes & Projects; Corporate Responses; Drinking Water Supply; Economic Markets & Policies; Energy Policy & Development; Hydrologic Management; Improved Technology; Mangroves; Microorganisms; Non-point Source Controls; Nutrient & Contaminant Processing; Nutrients; Physical & Chemical Water Quality Criteria; Point & Mobile Source Controls; Point Source Discharges; Political Pressure; Public Administration; Remediation; Resource Use Management; Seagrasses; Sewage Treatment; Waste Management Policies; Wastewater Discharge
Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, 16 United States Code §§ 1451-1456. Preserve, protect, develop, and where possible, to restore or enhance the resources of the Nation's coastal zone for this and succeeding generations.

Application to Coral Reefs:Protection of coastal areas can have an indirect influence on coral reef preservation and conservation by the use of environmentally sound construction and development by limiting runoff of contaminants and sediment that could have an adverse effect on inshore coral reefs if present.

Legislative Actions:In addition, the Act authorized a national system of estuarine sanctuaries and the establishment of national field laboratories with a 50/50 cost-sharing grants with coastal states.

Comments:
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/US Fish and Wildlife Service

Jurisdiction:
United States; State Coastal Waters
City Planning; Coastal Development; Collaboration & Partnering; Construction Codes & Projects; Corporate Responses; Designated Uses; Economic Markets & Policies; Environmental Education & Outreach; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Fishing & Harvesting Management; Funding & Incentives; Hydrologic Management; Landscape Changes; Landuse Management; Marine Debris; Marine Protected Areas; Non-point Source Controls; Nutrients; Permitting & Zoning; Point & Mobile Source Controls; Political Pressure; Public Administration; Resource Use Management; Sediment; Tourism & Recreation Policies; Transportation Policies; Waste Management Policies; Waterborne Discharges; Wetlands
Coral Reef Conservation Act of 2000, 16 United States Code § 6401 (2000). To preserve, sustain, and restore the condition of coral reef ecosystems, to promote the wise management and sustainable use of coral reef ecosystems, to benefit local communities and the Nation, to develop sound scientific information on the condition of coral reef ecosystems and threats to the ecosystems, to assist in the preservation of coral reefs by supporting and financing conservation programs including local and non-governmental programs, establish a formal mechanism for collecting and allocating monetary donations from the private sector to be used for coral reef conservation projects

Application to Coral Reefs:Allowed the development of programs and projects, and provided financing for developing sound scientific data to preserve and restore coral reefs. Continued the Coral Reef Task Force and Coral Reef Initiative started under Executive Order 13089 (1998).

Legislative Actions:Provided funding for matching grants, encouraged education and outreach, encouaged cooperative conservation and management through partnerships with other federal, state, regional and local partners including citizen groups.

Comments:The Act is administrative, not regulatory. It established four major programs; (1) The National Coral Reef Action Strategy established goals for research, monitoring and conservation, (2, 3) The Coral Reef Conservation Program and Coral Reef Conservation Fund provided financial assistance for coral reef projects, (4) the National Program facilitated cooperative work between federal, state and regional efforts that work to improve coral reef ecosystems. The National Program also enhanced the public awareness of coral reefs through educational programs. The Act incorporated Executive Order 13,089 and provided coordinated funding activities through twelve federal agencies and seven states.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Jurisdiction:
United States; US Coral Reefs
Biocriteria; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Corporate Responses; Education & Information; Environmental Education & Outreach; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Fishing & Harvesting Management; Food & Raw Materials; Funding & Incentives; Marine Debris; Marine Protected Areas; Microorganisms; Public Administration; Remediation; Utilities
Identification of impaired surface waters, 62-303 Florida Administrative Code Annotated (2002). The Chapter established a methodology to identify surface waters of the state that will be included on the state's planning list of waters that will be assessed pursuant to subsections 403.067(2) and (3), Florida Statutes. It also establishes a methodology to identify impaired waters based on representative data that will be included on the state's verified list of impaired waters, for which the Department will calculate Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDLs), pursuant to subsection 403.067(4), F.S., and which will be submitted to the United States Environmental Protection Agency pursuant to paragraph 303(d)(1) of the Clean Water Act (CWA).

Application to Coral Reefs:By regulating the amount of pollutants that will be allowed to be discharged into major waterbodies of the state, the amount of pollutants reaching estuarine and then marine environments, and eventually coral reefs, will assist in protecting the reefs and other habitats.

Legislative Actions:The planning list of impaired water bodies has been completed. Data on each water bodies has been collected. DEP is in the process of calculating TMDLs for each water body.

Comments:
Florida Department of Environmental Protection

Jurisdiction:
State Coastal Waters
Agriculture, Aquaculture, & Forestry Policies; Construction Codes & Projects; Corporate Responses; Designated Uses; Fertilizer & Pesticide Use; Finfish & Shellfish Stock; Forestry; Irrigation; Landscaping & Household Services; Landuse Management; Metals, Electronics, & Machinery Products; Microorganisms; Mining; Non-point Source Runoff; Nutrient & Contaminant Processing; Nutrients; Oil & Gas Research & Exploration; Point Source Discharges; Sewage Treatment; Solid Waste Disposal; Waste Management Policies; Wastewater Discharge; Wood, Plastics, & Chemical Products
National Marine Sanctuaries Act of 1972, 16 United States Code §§ 1431-1445. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to designate and manage areas of the marine environment with special national significance due to their conservation, recreational, ecological, historical, scientific, cultural, archeological, educational, or esthetic qualities as National Marine Sanctuaries.

Application to Coral Reefs:Protects marine resources, such as coral reefs, sunken historical vessels, or unique habitats.

Legislative Actions:NOAA may impose civil penalties up tp $130,000 per day per violation. Criminal penalties were added in the 2000 amendments for interfering or resisting with any enforcement of the NMSA, or providing false information to the Secretary or any officer authorized to enforce NMSA. The 2000 amendments made it illegal to offer for sale, purchase, import, or export, any sanctuary resource and increased enforcement authority.

Comments:There are 13 marine sanctuaries in the National Marine Sactuary System, six of which were created after 1990. Each sanctuary has a separarte staff and program in its local region.
National Oceanic Aatmospheric Administration

Jurisdiction:
Designated Marine Areas
Apex Fish Predators; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Boating Regulations; CO2; Coastal Development; Commercial Fishing Boats; Coral; Corporate Responses; Designate Protected Species; Designated Uses; Dive, Snorkeling, & Swimming Tourism; Dredging, Draining, & Filling; Educational & Research Opportunities; Environmental Education & Outreach; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Existence Value & Sense of Place; Fishing & Harvesting Management; Large Ships; Marine Birds; Marine Protected Areas; Nutrients; Ocean Acidity; Oil & Gas Research & Exploration; Political Pressure; Recreational Opportunities; Remediation; Resource Use Management; Seagrasses; Sediment; Tourism & Recreation Policies; Wetlands
Stationary Sources - Emission Standards, 62-296 Florida Administrative Code. (1) The Department of Environmental Protection adopts this chapter to establish emission limiting standards and compliance requirements for stationary sources of air pollutant emissions. (2) The chapter includes emission limitations for specific categories of facilities and emissions units, and it establishes reasonably available control technology requirements. Where work practice standards, including requirements for specific types of pollution control equipment, are provided for in this chapter, such standards shall be of the same force and effect as emission limiting standards. The emission limiting and work practice standards of Rule 62-296.320, F.A.C., and Rules 62-296.401 through 62-296.480, F.A.C., are applicable statewide. The reasonably available control technology requirements are established for specific areas of the state as set forth in Rules 62-296.500, 62-296.600, and 62-296.700, F.A.C. (3) A facility or emissions unit subject to any standard or requirement of 40 CFR. Part 60, 61, 63 or 65, adopted and incorporated by reference at Rule 62-204.800, F.A.C., shall comply with such standard or requirement. Nothing in this chapter shall relieve a facility or emissions unit from complying with such standard or requirement, provided, however, that where a facility or emissions unit is subject to a standard established in this chapter, such standard shall also apply. (4) Words and phrases used in this chapter, unless clearly indicated otherwise, are defined at Rule 62-210.200, F.A.C.

Application to Coral Reefs:Controlling air emission pollutants can assist in controlling ocean acid acidification and the damaging effect of ocean water acidification on coral reefs.

Legislative Actions:

Comments:To protect air quality, the chapter includes emission limitations for specific categories of facilities and emissions units, and it establishes reasonably available control technology requirements.
Florida State Department of Environmental Protection

Jurisdiction:
Atmospheric Emissions; Chemical Use Regulations; Climate Regulation; CO2; Corporate Responses; Greenhouse Gas Emissions; Natural Gas & Electric Power; Nutrients

Jump to main content.