Science

Science

Both the ecological and socio-economic aspects of reef restoration are rapidly evolving sciences. REEFolution invests heavily in both to increase the efficiency, effectiveness and societal benefits of coral reef restoration.

We develop new coral restoration techniques

We investigate ways to make coral reef restoration economically beneficial

We investigate strategic ways to motivate the local community to continue coral reef restoration while we set up new projects around the world.

New Research Topics

Together with the Wageningen University and Research Centre, we carry out more than 20 scientific studies per year. A few intented research topics are listed below:

Designing an effective coral nursery for snorkelers

Measuring the impact of curing cement on corals

Tracking fish catch in and around a locally-enforced no-take zone.


The science of coral reef restoration

In the way that coral reefs are often likened to rainforest for their boundless diversity and puzzling complexity, reef restoration can be likened to reforestation in that a select group of structurally complex key organisms (trees/corals) are reared and planted to kickstart the recovery of heavily degraded areas. However, reforestation is an established science that developed over the last century whereas reef restoration only gained traction over the last decade. In other words, there are still many lessons to be learned in reef restoration.

While many projects worldwide have been successful in rearing and outplanting corals, virtually nothing is known about the long-term ecological impacts and thus, indeed, whether reefs have been actually successfully restored. Intertwined and equally understudied is the socio-economic impact of reef restoration on all coastal people dependent on reefs.

The question is not whether we will change to a more sustainable future, but if we will do so quickly enough to prevent the collapse of essentially all coral reefs currently still viable and functional. Science plays a vital role in our adaptation capability.

Contact us!

Is your organization interested to support scientific research and leave an impact on both people and planet? Get in contact with us by sending an e-mail to info@reefolution.org.

Ronald Osinga

Professor Marine Animal Ecology

Tinka Murk

Professor Marine Animal Ecology

REEFolution Foundation

IBAN: NL33 SNSB 0927975866

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info@reefolution.org

REEFolution Foundation
Zwarteweg 100, 1431 VM
Aalsmeer, The Netherlands
Chamber of commerce: 64978168