This week, the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA) hosted a Reef Restoration Workshop on
Bonaire, bringing together over 20 experts in coral reef restoration. The event featured both in-person
and virtual presentations, attracting over 150 participants. Topics ranged from fish reproduction to
coral outplanting, fostering knowledge sharing and collaboration in efforts to safeguard the coral
reefs.
Coral reefs are crucial to the health of the Dutch Caribbean islands and provide invaluable services to
both marine life and human communities. They act as natural barriers, protecting coastlines from
erosion and storm damage, while also supporting fisheries and tourism sectors vital to the Dutch
Caribbean’s economy and well-being.
Alongside global climate change, local issues such as unregulated coastal development, inadequate
waste management, and invasive species contribute to reef degradation. Besides addressing these
issues, reef protection and restoration are essential for building resilience against future stressors.
Workshop Highlights
From June 17-19, participants attended lectures and presentations to deepen their understanding of
reef restoration techniques. Experts from the Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire, Caribbean Research
and Management of Biodiversity (CARMABI) and SECORE International discussed coral restoration
methods. The Coral Spawning Lab shared advancements in land-based coral spawning techniques. Van
Hall Larenstein covered the restoration of native herbivores like sea urchins and snails, which help
reduce harmful algae and improve coral survival. Diergaarde Blijdorp ( Roffareefs ) presented novel
approaches to herbivorous fish reproduction. Additionally, MPAConnect/AGRRA shared insights from
their Coral Restoration Roadmap Planning workshop in Florida.
Hands-On Learning
The workshop also included practical field activities led by Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire and
Diergaarde Blijdorp ( Roffareefs ). Participants engaged in coral fragmentation and micro-propagation
techniques, studied fish breeding behaviors, and took part in local reef restoration exercises. This
combination of classroom and fieldwork equipped attendees to apply their skills to ongoing and future
projects.
The Path Forward
Coral reefs are crucial to the health of the Dutch Caribbean islands. Coral reefs face threats from climate
change, invasive species, pollution and overfishing. Tackling these issues alongside reef protection and
restoration efforts is essential for enhancing the resilience of coral ecosystems against future stressors.
DCNA's Conservation and Restoration of Key Habitats Program invites stakeholders across the Dutch
Caribbean and beyond to join this vital initiative to safeguard biodiversity, enhance coastal resilience,
and support sustainable livelihoods.
