New Coral Reef Conservation Project Launched to Protect Gili Islands' Marine Ecosystem

In response to growing environmental pressures, a coalition of local dive operators, community leaders, and international marine biologists has launched the "Gili Coral Restoration" project. The initiative aims to counter the effects of climate change and tourism-related damage on the precious coral ecosystems of Gili Trawangan, Meno, and Air.

The project's core involves the use of Biorock technology, which uses a safe, low-voltage electrical current to stimulate coral growth on steel structures. This method has been shown to increase coral growth rates by up to five times the natural rate and significantly improve resilience to environmental stressors.

A key component of the project is community involvement. "We are not just planting coral; we are planting awareness," said a project leader. Tourists can now participate in workshops where they can help attach coral fragments to the Biorock structures, creating a unique and impactful sustainable tourism experience.