Amid growing concerns over the rapid decline of coral reefs worldwide, Soneva Fushi in the Maldives hosted a pivotal gathering from January 9 to 12, 2025. The event, organized by the Soneva Foundation Coral Restoration programme, brought together top marine scientists, conservationists, and financial experts to develop large-scale solutions for coral reef restoration and resilience.
A Collaborative Effort for Coral Conservation
Held within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Soneva Dialogue on Coral Reef Restoration and Resilience was co-led by Professor Callum Roberts from the University of Exeter and Karen Sack, Executive Director of the Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance (ORRAA). This groundbreaking three-day summit explored the devastating impact of climate change on coral ecosystems and examined innovative restoration techniques being implemented at Soneva Fushi and beyond.
Shaping the Future of Coral Regeneration
The summit concluded with a powerful declaration urging immediate and large-scale action. Experts emphasized the need for innovative financial solutions, including blue bonds and insurance models, to secure the funding necessary for long-term reef regeneration. The declaration warned that without decisive interventions, most of the world’s tropical coral reefs could be lost within decades.
Professor Callum Roberts highlighted the urgency of shifting the focus from restoration to regeneration, advocating for strategies that integrate localized efforts with large-scale marine protection to enhance reef resilience. He stated, “Traditional restoration aims to replace what has been lost. Now, we must look forward, developing coral species and ecosystems that can thrive in future ocean conditions.”
Karen Sack of ORRAA reinforced this sentiment, stressing the need for urgent investment in regeneration initiatives. “Corals are in crisis, and if we want to preserve these essential ecosystems, we must scale up financial support. Innovative funding mechanisms will be key to ensuring their survival.”
Hope Through Science and Innovation
Dr. Johanna Leonhardt, lead scientist at the Soneva Foundation Coral Restoration programme, expressed both concern and optimism. “Marine heatwaves and bleaching events continue to degrade coral reefs, but through dedicated research and proactive measures such as coral nurseries and spawning labs, we are working to cultivate resilient coral populations that can withstand future climate challenges.”
The final declaration reaffirmed that coral reefs have already lost half their living cover in recent years, and failure to curb global warming beyond 1.5°C will accelerate this decline. However, with bold, science-driven strategies and unprecedented financial backing, hope remains for sustaining and regenerating these irreplaceable ecosystems.
As the global conservation community looks ahead, the Soneva Dialogue stands as a crucial step toward securing the future of coral reefs, reinforcing the need for collaboration, innovation, and investment in marine resilience.