Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras
Score: 47

"The reefs are in dire straits. Bleaching, increased algae cover, loss of key reef grazers, etc., are all big problems and getting worse, as is real estate development, the huge influx of mainland Hondurans looking for work, and a major change in the character of the island."

"Roatan is essentially intact, but increasingly the target for cruise ships, sometimes two or three at the same time. Island totally different when no ships are in—then it is a largely authentic, laid-back place to dive, swim, and meet with local culture."

"Roatan is a cancerous growth slowly spreading to the north coast of Honduras. It is a greed-driven, unsustainable tourism model, degrading its terrestrial habitat and the surrounding reef system. Most businesses are owned by Americans, and short-term return on investment is paramount."

"Roatan could very well stage a recovery in coming years. Residents and visitors who have seen the bleaching reefs and diminishing sea life are beginning to understand what it will take to reverse the damage. Efforts to educate local fishermen are showing signs of success."