Counting coral
WHO ARE WE? WHAT ARE WE DOING?
Counting Coral is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that designs, donates, and installs Sculptural Coral Gene Banks specifically crafted to rehabilitate coral reefs. Through its unique strategy and meticulously designed Gene Bank system, Counting Coral actively protects the biodiversity of selected reefs, generates employment and stakeholder involvement within local communities, and successfully cultivates corals while preserving the 'parent coral'. By submerging artworks that are both structural and functional, Counting Coral is transforms how people engage with coral reef restoration. ​​
​
Starting with a passionate collective of ocean enthusiasts, Counting Coral is a growing nonprofit organization dedicated to a future where, in simple terms, coral reefs can simply exist as they should.
The nonprofit began with a small collective of individuals passionate about the ocean with an unprecedented ambition to make a difference in the space of reef restoration. Our journey began humbly, gradually gaining the engagement of a broader circle of conservationists who shared our vision and supported our endeavors. Throughout the past three years, Counting Coral has evolved into a diverse and interdisciplinary team with varying areas of expertise, uniquely qualified to tackle this challenge.
WHY SCULPTURAL GENE BANKS?
-
Through Counting Coral's Gene Bank System, the sculptural park helps preserve the biodiversity and genetic diversity of the select location's coral reefs, safeguarding against a future dominated by mono-cultures or, worse yet, complete degradation.​
​
-
The Sculptural Coral Gene Banks function as a perpetual system for coral cultivation, facilitating the replanting and regrowth of reefs through the use of gene banks and secondary nurseries. This system allows for the ongoing protection and monitoring of 'parent corals' within the gene bank—a practice not commonly implemented in traditional coral restoration efforts.
​
-
The sculptures serve as a distinct conservation strategy—an awe-inspiring underwater interactive art exhibit that comes to life just weeks after submersion. They captivate tourists, travelers, and passersby, encouraging their involvement in coral restoration and acting as a powerful and impactful marketing tool for the resort or partnering organization to utilize.
​
-
The sculptures transform into an artificial reef, creating new habitats for marine life, easing pressure on natural reefs by redirecting tourists and divers, and serving as a foundation for further growth beyond the initially planted coral. By deliberately selecting materials, shapes, and layouts, we craft a new ecosystem that complements rather than intrudes upon existing environments.
​
-
The Sculptural Coral Gene Bank and related reef initiatives by Counting Coral create local employment opportunities for managing the gene bank, while also educating the community and engaging local stakeholders.