With the aim of decreasing the decline of coral reefs in the local area, Alila Manggis, an Eco Resort Bali has teamed up with conservation organisations, Yayasan Alam Indonesian Lestari (LINI) and local fishermen, to develop the ‘Coral Conservation Programme’. Coral reefs are complex tropical ecosystems made of living organisms that rival the rainforests in terms of biodiversity. They are home to some of the most fascinating plants and animals in the world, and support nearly a quarter of all marine species. They protect the shoreline and coastal communities from damaging storms and tsunamis. They are also an invaluable resource, providing food and income to millions worldwide. Scientists predict that another 32 percent of Coral reefs may be lost in the next thirty years if human threats are not reduced.
The primary aim of this programme is to reduce the decline of coral reefs in the local area that are in threatened by global warming and overfishing. The initial step of reef restoration began with the active participation of 20 fishermen from surrounding local villages. The team will also implement a training and awareness programme for the fishermen and the hotel staff, to educate the present and future generations about marine conservation and the impact of over-fishing.
The Coral conservation Project will ensure a stable future for the villagers whose key mode of income is fishing and secondarily Tourism. The hotel and the local community will worktogether to place artificial structures, known as fish domes and roti buaya, into the waters. These structures are designed to restore the existing coral reefs, encourage new coral to settle and grow and the structures will also attract other organisms as well as a large number of fish. The project will consist of 27 fish domes and 45 roti buaya and these sites will be regularly monitored. The Alila Manggis also offers the “Gift-to-share” package and the chance for guests to participate in the Coral Conservation.
Intrigued by history, art and food, Shazzana Hamid is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary. Disguised as Lavinia Woolf she writes of the exhilarating and enchanting.