08 Jun CTC holds a press conference to release the results from the Bali Reef Health Survey

A comprehensive scientific survey on Bali’s coral reefs showed that the island’s corals remain resilient despite threats from pollution, unregulated fishing and irresponsible tourism.

The Bali Reef Health Survey, conducted during a four-month period from July to October 2015, found that that 60% of Bali’s coral reefs are in good condition. The survey is the first ever comprehensive survey undertaken to assess the status of Bali’s coral reefs. The results from the survey were released today (June 8)  in a press conference to mark World Oceans Day and Coral Triangle Day.

The data collected provides a benchmark for future reef surveying around Bali; Bali’s Reef Health Survey analysed the marine environment and the socioeconomic status of coastal communities dependent on marine related industries. The survey was led by the Coral Triangle Center (CTC), in collaboration with Udayana University, Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha (UNDIKSA), Department of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Bali Province, Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, and fully supported by The Nature Conservancy Indonesia.

Although the survey showed a rosy picture of Bali’s coral reef status, Learning Site Manager, Mr. Marthen Welly, stated that human impacts: pollution, unregulated fishing and irresponsible tourism, continue to threaten Bali’s coastal and marine ecosystems. Global warming also puts pressure on the environment; rising sea temperatures have lead to coral bleaching: a phenomenon that is causing widespread damage to reefs across the globe.

CTC hopes that the results from the survey will fuel future discussions on the implementation of marine conservation laws and regulations across Bali. In the meantime, the organization will continue its own reef health research and focus its efforts on the effective management of conservation areas in Bali and beyond.

Articles (Bahasa Indonesia) on the Bali Reef Health Survey:

• Coral Bleaching Ancam Terumbu Karang Bali (Tempo.co)
• Hasil Survei: 60% Terumbu Karang Di Bali Kondisinya Baik (Bisnis.com)