Rejuvenating coral ecosystems by involving local communities and creating new livelihood opportunities

The coral reefs in Saint Lucia are important for fishing and tourism, but are at risk from climate change and pollution, as well as mechanical damage such as anchors and theft of corals or vandalism. The warming of the seawater no longer allows recolonization in the original species composition. Therefore, the project establishes species resistant to ocean warming in order to keep ecosystems alive. To this end, it empowers two local communities to protect, control and monitor corals and repair damaged reefs with resilient species. In addition to training measures for so-called "coral gardeners" including diving training and equipment, the project implements a system based on solar-powered electrical growth impulses for the corals.