Coral reefs are the ocean’s most biodiverse ecosystems, covering less than 1% of the seafloor yet supporting at least 25% of marine species. They provide crucial benefits for coastal communities, including food, economic security, and protection from storms. However, coral reefs face severe threats from climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Between 2009 and 2018 alone, 14% of global coral reefs were lost, with nearly half lost since the 1950s.
Blue Alliance co-manages marine protected areas (MPAs) alongside governments, combining regulatory oversight with day-to-day operations. Their work focuses on community engagement, surveillance, scientific research, and sustainable enterprise development. By creating “reef-positive” businesses such as ecotourism and aquaculture, they build self-sustaining revenue streams that support reef restoration and coastal resilience.
Currently managing over 1.7 million hectares of MPAs, Blue Alliance aims to expand this to 4 million hectares by 2028 with Trafigura Foundation’s support. This expansion will improve the lives and food security of around 32,000 coastal community members and contribute directly to the global “30×30” biodiversity target to protect 30% of the planet’s ecosystems by 2030.
This initiative advances nature-based solutions that protect marine biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience, and empower coastal communities.
Learn more here.
