Coral Triangle countries gathered in Bali on June 3 to July 4, 2025 for an learning exchange focused on improving marine protected areas (MPAs) effectiveness through a Regional Workshop through the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Green List. The activity brought together over 65 representatives from the six Coral Triangle countries—Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Timor-Leste, Papua New Guinea, and Solomon Islands—alongside global experts and partners. Co-organized by  IUCN, the Coral Triangle Center (CTC), CTI-CFF Regional Secretariat, and GIZ through the SOMACORE project, the workshop marked the official launch of the Green List site assessment phase for 12 pilot MPAs. 

The IUCN Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas is a global standard developed by the to recognize marine and terrestrial areas that are effectively managed, equitably governed, and achieving positive conservation outcomes. It provides a voluntary certification system for protected areas and Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs) that meet rigorous criteria across four key pillars: good governance, sound design and planning, effective management, and successful conservation results. The Green List process includes self-assessment, independent review, and continuous improvement, encouraging adaptive management and stakeholder engagement. As a tool to support the Global Biodiversity Framework’s 30×30 target, the Green List helps countries demonstrate measurable conservation success while aligning with international goals for biodiversity, equity, and climate resilience.

Over four days, participants explored the IUCN Green List Standard and its alignment with the Global Biodiversity Framework’s Target 3 (30×30). Technical sessions, hands-on group work, and a field visit to Nusa Penida MPA—an active Green List candidate site—provided concrete insights on governance, community engagement, and adaptive management.

The field visit to Nusa Penida MPA was a highlight of the workshop, offering participants an immersive experience of Green List implementation in practice. Hosted by CTC and local partners, the visit showcased community-based stewardship, sustainable tourism practices, and participatory governance models. Participants engaged with local authorities, tourism operators, and community leaders to understand how conservation goals are balanced with economic and cultural values in a high-use marine area. The visit also demonstrated real-time application of Green List indicators, offering valuable lessons in adaptive management and stakeholder engagement.

Key outcomes included the finalization of the 12 Green List candidate sites, completion of initial self-assessments, and the co-creation of a tailored roadmap for the Coral Triangle Green List Programme. Participants agreed on updating the Coral Triangle MPA System (CTMPAS) criteria to align with global standards and outlined next steps for knowledge exchange using PANORAMA Solutions. Country teams also identified technical support needs and collaboration opportunities, while forming a regional peer-learning network structured around thematic strengths. These outcomes reflect strong regional ownership and a shared commitment to improve effectiveness and equity in marine conservation through practical, locally grounded application of international standards.

Supported by Germany’s International Climate Initiative (IKI), the Solutions for Marine and Coastal Resilience (SOMACORE) programme enhances ecosystem and community resilience in the region. Through regional cooperation and use of globally recognized standards, the Coral Triangle is poised to not only expand its MPA coverage but also improve effectiveness, equity, and sustainability across its seascapes.