Nestled in the Tubusereia waters of Central Province, Papua New Guinea, a transformative initiative called Hiri Coral PNG has been doing wonders in the local marine life since 2017. This pioneering environmental service is not just about cultivating coral; it’s about catalyzing change, rejuvenating marine ecosystems, uplifting local communities and sparking a passion for marine conservation among the youth. An idea that stemmed to life from Igo Gari’s thesis during his PHD studies in Bond University, Hiri Coral PNG was awarded runner up amongst nine Pacific Innovative and Social Entrepreneurs in the 2023 Pacific Islands Blue Economy ClimAccelerator Program.
Through a blend of modern sustainable farming and traditional knowledge, Hiri Coral PNG is breathing new life into ailing coral reefs. As Igo Gari, the founder of Hiri Coral PNG, expresses, “Our coral farming efforts are not just about growing coral; they are about restoring balance to our oceans and ensuring a sustainable future for all.”
By involving local fishermen, traditional custodians in coral farming activities, the initiative not only supports the recovery of marine biodiversity but also creates sustainable livelihood opportunities for coastal communities deeply reliant on the sea.
At the core of Hiri Coral PNG’s mission is the establishment of coral nurseries that serve as havens for a myriad of marine species. Igo Gari emphasizes, “Each coral nursery we nurture is a beacon of hope for the future of our oceans, a sanctuary where marine life can thrive and ecosystems can flourish.”
“We have to date, planted 17, 000 coral plants, this is equivalent to the size of 6 rugby fields altogether”, says Gari. “Much of the work is done by the local fishermen, who are the traditional custodians, and I give them full credit as it is a laborous venture and through their efforts, we have managed to restore the marine diversity in the local reefs’ “, he added.
Beyond conservation efforts, Hiri Coral PNG is nurturing a sense of environmental stewardship among the youth. “Our goal is not just to conserve marine ecosystems, but to raise awareness amongst our young people about the importance of sustainable coral farming for a healthier future”, says Igo Gari.
Despite its noble goals, Hiri Coral PNG faces challenges on the path to sustainability. “Marine Conservation has its challenges, but it is our shared responsibility to overcome them for the sake of our oceans,” reflects Igo Gari. From coral bleaching events triggered by climate change to pressures from overfishing and pollution, the initiative grapples with threats that undermine its mission of marine restoration. Limited funding and evolving socio-economic dynamics further test its resilience and long-term viability.
Amidst these challenges, there are positive impacts that stand out since Hiri Coral PNG’s establishment. “Rejuvenation of marine life, bringing financial opportunities to traditional custodians and building awareness amongst young people for a better future, are amongst many positive impacts”, Igo stressed.
Igo Gari’s vision and leadership have made Hiri Coral PNG to be a beacon of marine conservation efforts in Papua New Guinea. While Mr. Gari ventures to another area in life in terms of career pathways, his unwavering commitment to restoring coral reefs, empowering local communities, and inspiring the next generation of conservationists serves as a guiding light in the quest to protect our oceans.
As Igo Gari eloquently puts it, “Our work at Hiri Coral PNG is not just about saving coral; it’s about safeguarding a way of life, a connection to the sea that sustains us all. Together, we can create a legacy of conservation, resilience, and hope for the future.”
**This article includes photos taken from Hiri Coral PNG’s Facebook page. Click here to see Hiri Coral’s Facebook Page**
**This article was produced with the support of Internews Earth Journalism Network**