DIMO’s ‘Life to Reef’ project restores corals and rejuvenates livelihoods

Diesel and Motor Engineering PLC ( DIMO), has embarked on ‘ Life to Reef ’, a key sustainability project aimed at protecting and restoring the beautiful coral reefs in the Bonavista Reef at Rumassala near Galle.

DIMO is proactively involved in replenishing and restoring corals which are rapidly becoming an endangered variety of marine species. The latter initiatives by DIMO has led to an unprecedented expansion in live coral coverage in this area.

Latest statistics by the Wildlife and Ocean Resource Conservation ( a nonprofit organisation working on conserving bio- diversity of Sri Lanka), the technical partner of the project, have affirmed that coral coverage has increased from low percentage of 5 before November 2017, to a resounding 75 per cent increase which spans over an area of 2.2 acres when measured in January 2019, contributing immensely to rejuvenate the rich biodiversity of marine organisms as a whole, according to a DIMO media release.

The Life to Reef initiative includes unique methods of coral restoration, which were experimented and found to be successful by Wildlife and Ocean Resource Conservation. The latter coral restoration techniques included planting corals on cement structures, metal frames and nursery racks which have been deposited by divers at the bottom of the sea. The first phase of the project which began in 2017 installed on the reef, followed by the second phase in 2018. The company planted more than 1000 coral nubbins covering the area in both phases.

In a collaborative approach, the company constantly monitored the growth and progress of conservation efforts with the Wildlife and Ocean Resources Conservation. The data confirmed that DIMO’s restoration efforts had contributed towards rehabilitating the reef and made possible the return of lost biodiversity to this environment.

Data has also revealed that the rejuvenated reefs have helped replenish marine life. Previously, the technical team observed only 64 fish species in and around Bonavista reef. Currently it has been increased to 185 with the continuous growth of corals. Chondrichthyes, Actinopterygii and Scorpaenidae are some of the few species that can be identified in the area after the coral restoration project.

Statistics also show that height of the these corals has increased upto 10cm- 15cm and such planted corals have also divided in to 10- 20 branches each. Initially at the planting stage height of corals was about 2cm-5cm.

Commenting on the success of the project, Ranjith Panditha g e, Chairman and Managing Director, DIMO, said, “Coral reefs play a significant role in maintaining a balanced marine ecosystem and protecting coastlines. Conservation and the sustainable use of oceans, seas and marine resources are not only a global mandate declared by UN SDGs, but have been identified as one of our national biodiversity priorities. As a responsible corporate in Sri Lanka we believe it is our prime duty to take such an initiative in environmental conservation for the betterment of our planet and mankind.”

DIMO understands that corals which are home to many species of marine life, is also a resource for responsible tourism. “The project is aligned with our mission in uplifting the living standards of people and providing economic stability. We have successfully contributed in making a positive impact to society and the environment,” Mr. Pandithage added.