Protecting Reefs to Sustain the Planet: UTS’ Associate Professor Emma Camp

The ocean produces the oxygen for every second breath we take, thanks largely to microscopic phytoplankton. Coral reefs play a vital role in maintaining balance. If reefs collapse, so does the biodiversity that underpins ocean health. And if the oceans falter, the climate follows.

Coral reefs occupy less than 1% of the ocean floor, but support about a quarter of all marine biodiversity. That's why Dr Emma Camp's work matters so much. At University of Technology Sydney, she studies how corals can survive in a warming, acidifying ocean, which is an environment where many are already struggling.

These images aren't pristine tropical postcards. They show her research which focuses on tough corals found in extreme environments and ones that might just hold the key to reef survival. In the lab, trays of coral fragments are carefully monitored and under glowing blue light, oxygen levels are checked, which is an indicator of how well the coral is functioning.

Emma is both scientist and problem solver. She's part of a generation actively working on solutions, which includes researching coral transplants, advising international bodies and mentoring students. Through her science, collaboration and persistence, she's helping to give reefs and everything they support a fighting chance.