The Pemuteran Bay Coral Protection Foundation aims to address the collapse of local fish stocks by implementing artificial coral reefs and creating a locally-managed Marine Protected Area (MPA) to restore marine biodiversity. 

Nature-based Intervention:

In the face of devastating fish stock collapse and loss of coral reefs due in part to destructive fishing techniques such as reef bombing, the village of Pemuteran on the Indonesian island of Bali has engaged in a combination of approaches which have reportedly resulted in positive ecological and socioeconomic outcomes. Firstly, the foundation has overseen the installation of 70 ‘Biorock’ technology artificial reefs, consisting of steel-frame structures through which a low voltage electric current is passed, attracting calcium carbonate buildup and becoming an effective substrate for the establishment and rapid growth of coral. Secondly, the foundation, working closely with the national enforcement agencies to ensure compliance, has supported the reintroduction and enforcement of locally-managed Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) which strictly forbid unsustainable fishing practices. Lastly, other activities organized by the foundation have contributed to the regeneration of the coral reefs and fish stocks, such as the planting of vetiver grass on shorelines to reduce erosion and excessive run-off, as well as waste and sewage management. According to project reports, the 70 structures span two hectares, reportedly making this the largest coral reef nursery restoration project globally.

Overview of context and outcomes:

Biorock corals have been shown to grow three to five times more quickly than natural coral, and are also more resilient to the effects of temperature fluctuations, with coral survival rates between 16-50 times higher.