Restoring the Reefs

Gili Trawangan is a unique example of what can be accomplished by local community and tourist orientated business operators working together with a common goal to protect adn restore the environment, reversing the mistakes of the past and set sustainable systems in place for future generations.

The unique and outstanding coral reefs around Gili Trawangan suffered in past decades from natural and man made disasters and when the problem was recognised, eco-concious people joined forces to take action and restore the pristine environment.

Firstly the coral reefs were protected by making the area a “Green Zone” and high technology was employed to encourage reef regeneration.   Thanks to the GIli Eco Trust and their Biorock Program was established in 2002 and this utilises low voltage electrical currents to grow solid limestone minerals on conductive surfaces.  Welded steel frames are submerged at various depths in the ocean and these solid sufaces become the framework or artificial reef on which corals can anchor and grow, providing safe havens for juvenile fish populations which then attract further fish life and marine activity. 

These structures have shown that the coral is regenerating 2-6 times faster than controls and are exceptionally brightly coloured and densely branched.  The corals heal from damage at least 20 times faster, have 16-50 times higher survival rates.  New coral recruitment are seen to be 100s to 1000s times higher than in previous studies!  All great proof that it is working.

These reefs also protect the islands from beach erosion by providing a breakwater against unusual high tides, storms and wave action. It is worth diving to the Biorock reefs to see the coral and fish thriving in these areas.  33 Biorcok reefs have been submerged to date around Gili T with 15 new structures placed in December 2008.

This program is fully funded by the local businesses and diving operators and fully supported by Beautiful Life Bungalows and Charters.

Turtle breeding and restocking program

With local donations, turtle eggs that previously would have ended up on the dining tables are purchased, incubated and grown until they are large enough to be safely released into the ocean.  The tanks can be seen on the beach to the north of the jetty on the island and donations accepted.
The release of the turtles to the ocean is performed with a large celebration at certain times of the year.