REEFS RELOADED

Restoration projects are not only helping restore damaged reefs, but also create dive sites that are great for beginners and divers looking for something a bit different.

DIVING PAST THE KALEIDOSCOPE

of colours and diversity of life surrounding a coral reef is one of the most mindblowing experiences divers can have. Ask any new diver and they will tell you it looks like a whole new world down there. Even for seasoned divers a healthy coral reef will never get boring as life hides in every little corner of these ancient structures.

Unfortunately, over the last few decades, coral reefs have faced many natural and human threats and a lot of reefs around the world have vanished or life around them has diminished dramatically.

Scientists have come up with all sorts of solutions to restore damaged corals and even build full artificial reefs. Some of these projects have been very successful and have the added benefit of offering divers a whole new ecosystem to explore. These reefs are not only amazing to dive on but are essential to our blue planet.

Within the Asia Pacific region there’s been a multitude of experiments regarding artificial reefs and reef restoration. Here is a very quick look at some of the most innovative, successful and interesting projects that divers can visit.