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The ocean absorbs a large amount of carbon emissions that humans have released into the atmosphere. Since the carbon is trapped in the ocean, it seems we are relieved of its adverse effects as an air pollutant, but it is changing the ocean's chemistry, threatening coral reef ecosystems and the species that rely on them, including our own.

Developing countries encounter many predicaments, but the harm they face when simply cooking a meal is often overlooked. Households are subjected to poor air quality, a result of cooking methods that fill the home with soot. Local pollutants can be mitigated by the use of clean burning stoves.

Coral bleaching incidences have been unprecedented in recorded history. Although the coral bleaching phenomenon is not thoroughly understood, there are ties to rising ocean temperatures. Some scientists believe the corals may be able to adapt to the increasing temperatures, but the changes are happening so abruptly, the corals may not have time to.

The coral reefs provide a source of food and income to a large number of individuals worldwide, making the state of the coral reefs a global concern. Unfortunately, the reefs are not being faced with just one affliction, they are enduring the onslaught of many.

As Pacific Island communities become more modernized, cultures and traditions are at risk of being left behind. Though new techniques can be adopted and modified to work within a culture, celebrating tradition reminds us of the advantage that long-standing customs have over newer trends - years of experience.