If that doesn't sound much, then consider this: that's twice as fast as the rate of destruction of tropical rainforests.

CNN: All About: Coral Reefs

At the present rate of destruction, by the year 2050, a breathtaking 70 percent of the world's reefs will have disappeared, according to the Nature Conservancy.

CNN: All About: Coral Reefs

According to the Nature Conservancy, if the present rate of destruction continues, 70 percent of the world's coral reefs will be destroyed by the year 2050.

CNN: Heroes: Reef restoration provides passion for diver

"An area the size of Wales is frequently used to measure the rate of forest destruction around the world, " said Size of Wales project manager, Hannah Scrase.

BBC: Prince launching 'Size of Wales' project in Llanarthne

This is not just a function of the jobless rate, the destruction of wealth in the stock market and the depression in low and middle priced housing.

FORBES: My Country, Right Or Wrong, My Country!

Though the greatest destruction of country houses has occurred during this century, there has always been a certain rate of attrition.

ECONOMIST: English snobbery

Just as they fear the destruction of their belongings by fire or theft, businesses may also be concerned that exchange- or interest-rate movements may turn a good idea into a lossmaker.

ECONOMIST: Economies need derivatives, but reform is justified