Sandals Resorts has launched an innovative coral restoration program that transforms vacation experiences into environmental stewardship across five Caribbean islands. The initiative allows guests to become "coral gardeners" while contributing to ocean health and marine ecosystem preservation.
Through partnerships with the Sandals Foundation and local organizations, the program has successfully transplanted over 37,000 coral fragments. Guests participate in PADI-certified diving experiences, learning coral restoration techniques before transplanting coral fragments from nurseries to natural reefs. This hands-on approach creates lasting legacies that will benefit marine life for generations.
In Saint Lucia, where the program began in 2018, more than 16,000 coral fragments have been outplanted around the island. The Center for Livelihoods, Ecosystems, Energy, Adaptation and Resilience (CLEAR) partners with all three Sandals resorts to offer the Coral Nursery Transplanting Specialty course. The program operates on a sustainable financing mechanism, with funds supporting expanded training and coral gardening throughout the island.
The Bahamas features a new Reef Rescue Network site managed by Sandals Royal Bahamian's water sports team in collaboration with the Perry Institute for Marine Sciences. Guests can take the Reef Rescue Diver Specialty Course, maintaining coral nurseries filled with elkhorn and staghorn coral fragments.
In Cura?ao, the program partners with BRANCH Coral Foundation to distribute coral trees containing 80 staghorn coral fragments each. The goal involves outplanting 300 fragments every six months across 100 square meters of reef, supported by the Future Goals program that removes ocean plastic debris.
Grenada's initiative focuses on community engagement, with the Sandals Foundation partnering with the Grenada Coral Reef Foundation to provide equipment and training to local families, building community trust and expanding restoration efforts.
Jamaica's program has transformed reefs near Boscobel and Whitehouse through collaboration with local fishermen who now serve as change-makers. Former fisherman Terrell became a full-time Sandals Foundation ambassador, noting the reef's remarkable recovery and increased marine life.
Executive Chairman Adam Stewart emphasizes that Caribbean ocean health begins with proactive participation, making guests integral partners in creating vibrant, sustainable marine ecosystems while enjoying unforgettable vacation experiences.
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