Reviving the reefs

Restoring and Repairing Coral Reefs in Hawaii

A non-profit organization called Kuleana Coral Restoration (KCR) is dedicated to restoring and repairing degraded coral reefs across Hawaii. KCR aims to revive declining marine ecosystems and contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Rebuilding coral reefs

KCR employs a proactive strategy by identifying damaged coral colonies with a low chance of survival, which they term “corals of opportunity.” These corals are collected by the dive team, reattached to solid reef substrates, and strategically planted in degraded or at-risk areas. The goal is to rebuild portions of the deteriorating ecosystem and scale up coral restoration efforts.

Esprit Saucier, an associate professor in the Faculty of Sciences, emphasizes the importance of collaborative approaches between researchers and the need for innovative solutions. Saucier also expresses interest in studying the impact of invasive coral species on native ecosystems and contributing to strategies that promote the recovery and resilience of coral reefs.

KCR’s progress and partnerships

KCR has made significant progress in its restoration efforts. The organization has partnered with the Mars Coral Reef Restoration Program, gaining insights from their techniques in Indonesia. KCR is also involved in community events, such as the Unity March for Lahaina in Maui.

Encountering challenges

The urgency of the coral reefs’ situation is emphasized by Daniel DeMartini, co-founder and director of science at KCR. The organization faced initial challenges in navigating logistical complexities, obtaining permits, and developing large-scale restoration techniques. However, KCR has built strong relationships with local communities and gained approval for its activities.

KCR has secured funding from federal sources, community members, and foundations. The organization has also received a grant from the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration to address workforce availability and train local residents in coral restoration techniques. The goal is to build a foundational workforce to scale up the process of healing the reefs around Hawaii.

Persevering in coral reef conservation

Esprit Saucier emphasizes the importance of tenacity in coral reef restoration efforts. Collaboration and continuous learning are essential in finding solutions. Saucier urges individuals to take small actions at home to protect coral reefs, such as proper waste disposal and minimizing direct human impact on fragile reef ecosystems.

Daniel DeMartini reflects on the successful reattachment and growth of coral fragments planted by KCR’s team. The positive follow-ups on the planted corals showcase the tangible impact of KCR’s efforts on the future of Hawaii’s coral reefs.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 14: Life Below Water

   • Target 14.2: By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience, and take action for their restoration in order to achieve healthy and productive oceans.
   • Indicator: Progress in the restoration and conservation of coral reefs.

2. SDG 15: Life on Land

   • Target 15.5: Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity, and protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species.
   • Indicator: Progress in rebuilding portions of deteriorating ecosystems through coral restoration efforts.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 14: Life Below Water and SDG 15: Life on Land. These SDGs focus on the conservation and restoration of marine and coastal ecosystems, as well as the reduction of habitat degradation and biodiversity loss.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are Target 14.2 under SDG 14 and Target 15.5 under SDG 15. Target 14.2 aims to sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems, including their restoration. Target 15.5 focuses on reducing habitat degradation, biodiversity loss, and preventing species extinction.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

The article mentions indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. The progress in the restoration and conservation of coral reefs is an indicator for Target 14.2 under SDG 14. Additionally, the progress in rebuilding portions of deteriorating ecosystems through coral restoration efforts serves as an indicator for Target 15.5 under SDG 15.

The article provides information about Kuleana Coral Restoration’s efforts to rebuild coral reefs and restore degraded marine ecosystems. These efforts align with the targets and indicators mentioned above, as they contribute to the sustainable management, protection, and restoration of coral reefs and natural habitats.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: kealakai.byuh.edu

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