June 9, 2022

The Coral Gardeners, a project founded in Mo’orea, French Polynesia, was founded in 2017 started by some local islanders, who witnessed the degradation of coral reefs. This inspired them to take action by educating the public regarding the threats against coral reefs and rebuilding habitats. Additionally, the non-profit runs through the collectivization of scientists, engineers, and creators, to advocate ocean conservation through collaboration, helping to regenerate the coral reef system surrounding Tahiti. As of 2021, the organization seeded 5,347, cultivated 8,945 corals, reached out to forty-five million people, and innovated two connected nurseries. Its mission includes raising awareness, restoring the reefs, innovating, and creating a global movement.

The organization also offers the adopt a coral program, where those who don’t live on the island or have the accessibility to visit it in order to volunteer, can adopt a coral or donate a nursery or restoration site.

Celebrities and influencers such as Diplo and Hannah Stocking have even participated in this organization and its efforts by learning more about the project, volunteering in planting the corals, and increasing awareness regarding the project, its efforts, and its impact.

Due to constant natural disasters such as hurricanes and other phenomena like el niño, diseases, and overfishing, coral reefs are increasingly becoming more endangered. It is important that we act to conserve this form of life as it also impacts and provides life to more sea and ocean creatures. By raising awareness, restoring reefs, innovating, and creating a global movement, organizations like the Coral Gardeners aim to make an impact and difference for the better to restore coral life and revitalize our destroying ocean life.