October 2021

 

Joining forces to combine the findings of their innovative coral restoration programmes, the foundations are set to increase the global impact of their pioneering work 

As a highlight of the MSC Bellissima maiden call event in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on the 28th of July 2021, the MSC Foundation and Ba’a Foundation announced that they have joined forces to advance coral conservation to help safeguard marine ecosystems. 

 

Both foundations are already actively engaged in pioneering coral restoration programmes – MSC Foundation at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, our private island in the Caribbean, and Ba'a Foundation at Jeddah in the Red Sea. Equally important, both are committed to sharing the knowledge they acquire worldwide with the scientific community, decision makers and our guests visiting these destinations, driving global awareness of the need for everyone to play a role and take action in protecting the oceans. 

 

Coral reefs are among the most diverse ecosystems in the world and home to more than 25% of marine species despite only covering 1% of the seafloor. They serve as a food and economic resource for half a billion people and protect coastal communities from storms and erosion. However, according to the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, scientists predict that 70-90% of coral reefs are in danger of dying out within the next two decades (2030-2050).

 

So, it is with a sense of urgency that the partnership aims to increase the area of reef habitat actively restored and to further scientific understanding of and best practices for the restoration of coral reefs.

 

And that’s where our guests can all make a difference!

 

You can read more about the MSC Foundation's marine conservation by following the link below.