Through our new Blue Initiative – supporting maritime sustainability and ocean conservation – we’re partnering with The Perfect World Foundation to back Kenya’s first female Reef Ranger, empowering both marine ecosystems and women in conservation.
We spoke with Daniel Wilke, Marketing Director at The Perfect World Foundation, to learn more about the coral reef plantation project we are supporting – why it matters, how it works, its challenges, and the progress so far.
Why is planting coral reefs important?
Planting coral reefs, for example through one of our partners in Kenya, is crucial for restoring the ocean’s ecosystem. Corals preserve biodiversity, protect coastlines from erosion, strengthen fish stocks, and help combat climate change.
How does it work in practice?
In the project Greencarrier is supporting, corals are grown and planted on damaged reefs to restore the marine environment. Divers and marine biologists monitor the growth, and the local community is involved to ensure long-term sustainability.
What are the current challenges with planting reefs?
Challenges today include the impact of climate change, such as rising temperatures and ocean acidification, which make it harder for corals to survive and grow.
A key factor for success is involving the local population. To protect the reefs long-term, those who live along the coast must understand their value – both for the ecosystem and their own future through fishing and tourism. That’s why our project actively works with education and local engagement, so that more people see the importance of protecting our oceans.
At the same time, funding is a major challenge. Planting and protecting coral reefs require resources, and the project depends on support from donations and partnerships to continue its work. That’s why it’s important to support initiatives like this – together we can make a real difference for our oceans and future generations.
At the same time, funding is a major challenge. Planting and protecting coral reefs require resources, and the project depends on support from donations and partnerships to continue its work. That’s why it’s important to support initiatives like this – together we can make a real difference for our oceans and future generations.
– Daniel Wilke, Marketing Director at The Perfect World Foundation
How much have you planted so far, and what are the plans going forward?
So far, the project has planted over 42,000 corals, restored 5,200 m² of coral reefs, placed 4,000 artificial reef structures, and protected 69 hectares of marine environment. The Perfect World Foundation will continue supporting the education of Reef Rangers, so that more divers gain the knowledge and tools to actively restore and protect the reefs. Through their work, the ocean’s ecosystems are preserved while also inspiring their local communities to care for the oceans for the future.
Take a look at the video below to find out more about Kenya’s first female Reef Ranger:
The Greencarrier Blue Initiative
Through the Greencarrier Blue Initiative, Greencarrier is supporting projects and organizations focused on sustainability in the maritime industry and ocean conservation. Have a recommendation for us to explore? Read more about the Blue Initiative and get in touch with us today.
