A recent report by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reveals that nearly half of all reef-building coral species are now at risk of extinction, a significant increase from one-third in 2008. Out of 892 coral species assessed, many are struggling due to rising ocean temperatures linked to climate change. The alarming findings coincide with COP29 in Baku, where major polluting nations are notably absent. The IUCN warns of the vital role healthy coral ecosystems play in providing food, stabilizing coastlines, and storing carbon, calling for urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.