The Praiseworthy Reef Conservation Program by COLOURS of OBLU Brand

19 Dec 2024

Coral reefs, often referred to as the "rainforests of the sea," are essential to marine biodiversity, providing habitats for countless marine species. Unfortunately, global warming, ocean acidification, and pollution have led to the widespread degradation of these vital ecosystems. One such example is the coral bleaching event of 2016, which devastated the reefs around Sangeli Island in the Maldives, leaving behind barren landscapes of coral rubble and sandy lagoons. With the loss of coral cover, marine life also dwindled, posing a threat to both the environment and local communities that depend on these ecosystems.

In response to this pressing issue, OBLU SELECT Sangeli, part of the COLOURS of OBLU brand, launched an ambitious reef conservation program in January 2019. This initiative aimed not only to restore the reefs around Sangeli Island but also to actively contribute to global efforts to combat coral decline.

The program’s first step involved creating a coral nursery in the island’s main lagoon. The nursery employs the "coral frame method," which is a proven technique used to restore coral populations by providing a stable surface for coral fragments to grow. Over 150 metal frames were placed at two different sites around the island, with more than 7,000 coral fragments transplanted onto these frames. These nursery sites were carefully selected to ensure optimal growth conditions, and regular monitoring is conducted by in-house marine biologists, Giorgia Maggioni and Shah.

The results of this program have been nothing short of remarkable. Over the past four years, the coral nursery has flourished, bringing the lagoon back to life. The carefully nurtured reefs now feature a lush coral cover, and the surrounding waters have become a thriving ecosystem. Marine life, including a variety of fish species and invertebrates, has returned to the area. Snorkellers visiting the island are treated to a vibrant underwater world, where they can observe parrotfish, snappers, eagle rays, sharks, and many other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

One of the key aspects of the success of this conservation effort has been its dedication to long-term sustainability. The nursery is not a one-off project but is part of a broader commitment to reef health that includes constant monitoring, cleaning of marine debris, and the replanting of broken corals. These ongoing efforts ensure that the restored reefs remain resilient in the face of environmental challenges.

OBLU SELECT Sangeli’s reef conservation program is a shining example of how luxury tourism can play a positive role in environmental preservation. By combining scientific expertise with sustainable tourism practices, the COLOURS of OBLU brand has not only helped restore vital coral ecosystems but also provided guests with a unique opportunity to experience marine life in its most vibrant form.

As the program continues to thrive, it offers hope for the future of coral reefs around the world. Through these dedicated efforts, OBLU SELECT Sangeli is proving that conservation and tourism can go hand in hand, fostering a greater appreciation for our oceans while working to protect them for future generations.