Hawaii coral reefs at risk due to sewage contamination | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentNext articleIndependent Bulletin homepageSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleJulia MustoFriday 29 August 2025 00:27 BSTWhat If All the Coral Reefs Died Out?Research indicates that nearly 55 million gallons of sewage daily threaten Hawaii's coral reefs, with much of the pollution entering the ground near the coast.A study found that over 40 percent of sites along 120 miles of West Hawaii Island's coastline were contaminated by sewage, with 42 percent of sampled sites showing elevated levels of Enterococcus bacteria.The contamination, linked to inland sewage systems, faulty wastewater infrastructure, and coastal urban development, poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems and human health.The South Kona region is particularly vulnerable due to increased coastal development and its volcanic geology, which allows sewage to rapidly permeate underground water systems.Experts recommend monitoring affected areas, mitigating sewage pollution, implementing green infrastructure, and utilizing new wastewater treatment systems to protect the reefs.In fullSome 55 million gallons of sewage are threatening Hawaii’s coral reefsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in