We help diverse local communities protect coral reefs and chart their own sustainable futures. Our science-based conservation strategies ensure healthy reefs continue to support thriving human and wildlife communities.
20
tons of sediment kept off
Maui’s coral reefs in 2020
130
tourism operators trained in Mexico,
Belize, and Honduras in 2020
95%
reduction in bacteria in coastal waters along West End in Roatan, Honduras
Educate. Engage. Ensure.
Our local work on the ground—and in the water—focuses on:
Educating local communities
Local tourism and fishing businesses, concerned residents, and local governments all care about the health of their reefs. We share the results of our rigorous scientific monitoring and research with local communities so they can make informed decisions, and we support them in protecting their local resources.
Engaging with partners
We build alliances that lead to evidence-based policies and effective, scalable reef management. Multi-stakeholder partnerships with governments, agencies, research institutions, corporations, NGOs, and community members are key to ensuring that communities and reefs mutually thrive.
Ensuring reefs have what they need to survive
Reefs need time to adapt to climate change, and reducing major stressors gives them the critical time they need. Clean water, healthy fisheries, and well-managed marine protected areas ensure that local reefs can rebound and continue to thrive.
Investing in local communities
Ana Bessy Valdez Martinez is one of three community scientists that we employ in Honduras to gain a better understanding of what is happening to local fisheries. Through the relationships she’s built, she’s created a network of local fishers who participate in science and support rules and regulations.
Local Stories
Empowering Artisanal Fishers in Micos Lagoon, Honduras
Micos Lagoon, nestled in the heart of Honduras, stands as a symbol of ecological and economic significance. This natural wonderland is an essential breeding ground for several endangered species of marine life, including sea turtles, manatees, and American crocodiles, and plays a crucial role in preserving the region’s biodiversity. In addition to its ecological value,… Continue Reading →
How Technology Can Tackle Illegal Fishing in the Western Caribbean
Nowadays there’s an app for everything. There’s even one that can help protect coral reefs! The app is called SMART and it’s a tool being used by conservationists around the world to protect wildlife and its natural habitats. Thanks to our local partners, dedicated patrol rangers, and your generous support, we are expanding access to… Continue Reading →
Partnering with the Belize Tourism Board to Save Coral Reefs
It’s an exciting time at CORAL as we look to replicate our success and maximize our impact in new locations across the Western Caribbean. We started collaborating with the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) to expand our coral reef conservation work to Belize City and its surrounding areas. This partnership offers an opportunity to take steps… Continue Reading →
New Management Plan Will Protect Coral Reefs in Tela Bay, Honduras
Tela Bay, Honduras has some of the healthiest corals along the Mesoamerican Reef, boasting an abundance of critically endangered species, averaging a high rate of coral cover, and providing an important source of coral larvae for the region. It’s why we work with local communities, scientists, and partners to protect Tela Bay and its natural… Continue Reading →
Advancing Maui’s Watershed Restoration Project
Let’s travel to the island of Maui, Hawai‘i—a place of natural beauty, rich culture, and of course, vibrant coral reefs that we work tirelessly to protect. In 2022, we have advanced our watershed restoration project in West Maui, which focuses on decreasing sediment runoff that reaches coral reefs. West Maui used to have an abundance… Continue Reading →
From Thriving Fish to Spicy Salsa—Here’s How an Aquaponics System Could Support Coastal Communities
Did you know there’s a fish tank that produces tasty vegetables, can create economic opportunities, and helps protect coral reefs? It’s called an aquaponics system, and it combines aquaculture and hydroponics to raise fish and grow organic fruits and vegetables. An aquaponics system relies on a symbiotic relationship between fish and plants. Fish waste fertilizes… Continue Reading →
Celebrating the Success of Local Partners Who Overcame Challenges During COVID-19
Think back to 2020—hospital visits rose as COVID cases climbed, borders closed, businesses and schools shut down, and people panicked. The world we once knew spun upside down in a matter of days. And like so many, ocean conservation organizations, which depend highly on tourism revenue, suddenly faced unprecedented challenges as they worked to protect… Continue Reading →
Tela Bay’s Closed Fishing Season Increases Fish Biomass in Coastal Lagoons
With an almost 500% increase in fish biomass, a successful “closed fishing season” in Tela Bay, Honduras is offering relief to both community fishers and nearby coral reefs. Recently, the proper funding and on-the-ground support has allowed the Tela community to effectively carry-out a two-month closed fishing season in coastal lagoons and enforce sustainable fishing… Continue Reading →
The Stench of Sargassum Season: How Seaweed is Threatening Mesoamerica
Do you smell that? It’s the stench of rotting eggs…lingering for half a mile inland from the Caribbean shoreline. It’s a stinky reality of this year’s sargassum bloom, or in other words, the overload of seaweed that is washing up on beaches in parts of Mexico, Honduras, Belize, and other nearby areas. What is Sargassum?… Continue Reading →
What is a Destination Management Organization? And How Can a DMO Protect Coral Reefs in Cozumel?
Sandy white beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs—it’s the type of travel destination that many of us dream of. Vacation season is quickly approaching and soon, millions of eager tourists will pack their bags and flock to some of the world’s most beautiful, sought-after destinations. But increased popularity means many of the natural resources… Continue Reading →
We work on three priority initiatives to save reefs locally:
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