Global Resorts Join the Coral Planting Movement: From Bonaire to the Maldives

Delving into the depths of the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Bonaire, visitors not only encounter the mesmerizing beauty of coral reefs but also have the unique opportunity to actively participate in their preservation. The Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire, in collaboration with 13 local dive centers, offers certification programs for individuals interested in reef restoration. Participants undergo training to delicately handle coral fragments cultivated in underwater nurseries, which are then carefully attached to bamboo frames on the ocean floor.

This hands-on initiative is a response to the global threats facing coral reefs, including climate change and pollution. Bonaire’s commitment to reef regeneration serves as a model, with other destinations such as St. Lucia and the Maldives involving guests in similar coral planting endeavors. The growing emphasis on these conservation efforts underscores the urgency of protecting and revitalizing coral ecosystems worldwide.