Think the Earth

Shiraho district on Ishigaki island, in Okinawa prefecture is known for the largest and the most primeval blue coral reef community in the northern hemisphere. And according to WWF Japan's research conducted in March this year, the coral reef is in danger of red soil pollution. This investigation involved estimating the amount of red soil that would precipitate on the seabed from the water cloudiness caused by fine particles contained in the sand at the bottom of the sea. And by April 21st, it was reported that the pollution levels are at the highest level of "Rank 8."

It has been 5 years (2003) since the last time results yielded Rank 8 pollution levels, and WWF Japan suspects that the higher than average rainfall is the paramount cause. Okinawa prefecture drafted a master plan for measures to prevent red soil runoff from farmland, and it had helped to bring about a downward trend. However, WWF Japan points out that the prefecture must enhance measures and conduct better effect measurements in order to cope with an enormous amount of build up of red soil caused by varying conditions, such as the heavy rainfall experienced this year.

In addition, in the recent years heavy land development and construction have been in progress on the island. The acceptable level of pollution for healthy coral growth is said to be below Rank 4 - 5. And pollution levels above Rank 6 are said to be man-caused. However, it is very difficult for an ordinary citizen to prevent red soil runoff, so we hope that the government will take immediate measures such as implementation of regulations to protect the precious coral reef community.