OUR MARINE ENVIRONMENT IS SUFFERING
The western Indian Ocean hosts some of the world’s most precious habitats and species. Coral reefs, mangrove forests and seagrass beds, teeming with life, provide vital natural resources for the human inhabitants of the region. Yet, with coastal populations rapidly growing unchecked, human activities such as over-fishing and coastal development are damaging these previously pristine resources and may ultimately lead to their destruction. In addition, the impacts of climate change have the potential to cause devastating effects on fragile marine ecosystems, having already destroyed 80% of coral reefs in parts of the region.

THE SOLUTION
We need to address the lack of local expertise in marine resource monitoring and management activities. Only by training local people can we halt the loss of these habitats on which future generations depend

THE ACADEMY
A training academy in Mauritius will be created to service the region, providing the knowledge and skills that are so urgently required. The academy, due to open in 2008, shall offer a range of internationally-accredited courses. These will enable the future managers of fisheries, marine parks and tourism to protect the marine environment from the impacts of human activity and understand the implications of climate change. Participants from the region will also benefit from subsidized course fees and scholarships.

The academy will play a key role in the conservation of the marine environment in the western Indian Ocean, helping to protect our vital resources for both present and future generations to use, experience and enjoy.

Please check back for further updates or contact info@coastal-academy.org for information.