Active restoration in progress
Mars Sustainable Solutions
The Mars Assisted Reef Restoration Solution is a low-cost community-based reef restoration solution that is rapid and scalable. Our supply-chain approach to reef restoration diversifies and maximises community participation. We choose appropriate sites around the world and work closely with local communities and partners to rebuild reefs on degraded rubble fields. We use hexagonal 'Reef Star' structures, each with 15 sustainably harvested coral fragments attached. We deploy Reef Stars in an interlocking web across rubble beds - it is possible to install >5000 coral fragments per day. The web of Reef Stars stabilises loose rubble and provides a platform for rapid coral growth and full reef development within 3 years. We monitor socio-ecological performance and have developed a training programme for marine park managers, conservation practitioners and tourism operators. More information is at our website www.buildingcoral.com
Last update: 08 Feb 2023
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Context
Challenges addressed
Location
Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Caribbean
Central America
Southeast Asia
Oceania
Impacts
Environmentally, we see rapid coral growth, leading to 12x increases in coral cover and full reef development within 3 years. We also see increases in fish abundance and biomass, and the return of charismatic fauna such as turtles and sharks.
Socio-economically, we facilitate high levels of involvement and engagement with community-led conservation and restoration. This creates opportunities for employment, skills development, education, sustianable development and community empowerment.
Further details of our impacts are available at our website www.buildingcoral.com
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG 14 – Life below water
