Coral reefs are a lifeline for nearly a billion people, providing food security, livelihoods, and coastal protection. However, the escalating frequency of marine heatwaves is causing widespread coral die-offs, threatening marine biodiversity and the communities that depend on these ecosystems. While traditional conservation strategies focus on protecting reefs with lower thermal exposure, they often fail to consider the biological and socio-economic adaptations that are key to long-term resilience.  

Through the CLARE Initiative, CTC, in collaboration with Pattimura University, recently engaged with coastal communities in Nusalaut and Saparua Islands to share updates on the ClimateREEFS project. This initiative explores how coral reefs sustain marine life and adapt to climate change while helping coastal communities develop sustainable, climate-smart fishing practices.

With 59 participants in attendance, our work integrates cutting-edge satellite technology with on-the-ground research in Indonesia and the Philippines, bridging critical knowledge gaps. By mapping adaptive coral reefs and analyzing how gender, social status, and economic conditions influence community resilience, we are pioneering a new approach to biodiversity management. These insights are crucial for shaping climate-smart, gender-inclusive policies that protect both marine ecosystems and the people who depend on them.

Recently, CTC and our ClimateREEFS partners took these findings directly to the communities of Nusalaut and Saparua Islands, engaging local leaders, fishers, and women’s groups in meaningful discussions. Participants shared firsthand experiences of climate change impacts, including stronger storms, coastal erosion, and declining fish stocks. These conversations reinforced the need for proactive conservation strategies, such as reef restoration, sustainable marine resource management, and alternative livelihoods like seaweed farming. We also emphasized the importance of strengthening local conservation regulations and increasing community participation in marine protection efforts.

As ClimateREEFS expands its work to Haruku and Ambon Islands, it continues to drive early action to mitigate climate risk. The initiative’s long-term vision includes a global map of adaptive coral reefs that could revolutionize marine conservation planning and policy-making at local, national, and regional levels.

“This awareness program is important and should be conducted directly in the village so that more people understand the impacts of climate change and refrain from damaging coral reefs and mangrove trees, which help protect against increasingly powerful ocean waves.” said Abdullah Tutupoho, Raja of Negeri Kulur, Saparua District.

The fight to protect coral reefs and the communities that rely on them requires collective effort. Join the Coral Triangle Center in championing this cause. Stay informed, support conservation initiatives, and take action in your community. Together, we can ensure the resilience of coral ecosystems and safeguard the future of those who depend on them.

Writer(s): Kayla Azzahra/CTC
Photos: Kasman/CTC