In Asia-Pacific, Conservation International is leading efforts to protect some of the world's most biodiverse coral reefs, advancing global conservation goals while promoting sustainable livelihoods for Indigenous peoples and local communities.
Debt-for-Nature Swap in Indonesia
Conservation International is close to finalizing a landmark debt-for-nature swap that will redirect US$35 million of debt owed by Indonesia to the United States, to the conservation of Indonesia’s unique coral reef ecosystems including the Lesser Sunda, Bird's Head Seascape in Papua, and also the Banda Sea is now close to implementation. These areas form a large part of the Coral Triangle, boasting of the richest marine biodiversity areas in the world, with high concentrations of species including the iconic whale shark, manta ray and sea turtle. Conservation International will provide US$3 million to support the swap and will continue to work with both governments to ensure the effectiveness of its supported marine conservation efforts.
Mooring buoys to stop reef damage in Bird’s Head Seascape
While the swap is under way, Conservation International along with Konservasi Indonesia has been working with authorities in Southwest Papua to install two permanent mooring buoys in a marine protected area in the Dampier Strait, to reduce damage to coral reefs from tourism boats. This initiative has already attracted interest from the Indonesian government for potential expansion to other areas in support of the country’s commitment to protect 30% of its ocean territory by 2045.
Reef Check! Diving Deep into understanding Fiji's Marine Marvels
In the Pacific Ocean, Conservation International and partners have completed the third Marine Rapid Assessment of Fiji’s Lau Seascape.
The findings show that while some reefs in less inhabited areas of the Lau Seascape remain pristine and full of life, other reefs near inhabited islands show signs of overfishing and declining fish populations.
Conservation International will work closely with local communities to implement sustainable fishing practices and protect vital breeding grounds, through initiatives under the Lau Seascape Strategy including community education, community co-management and integrated natural resource management.
More on Lau: https://www.conservation.org/lau
