Coral reef restoration in the East Portland Fish Sanctuary

Context

Over the past few decades, Jamaica's coral reefs have suffered severe degradation: once-vibrant ecosystems, they are now largely overrun by algae. Restoring these reefs is essential for preserving biodiversity and supporting coastal communities.

In Jamaica, corals - which are home to a quarter of all marine species - have rapidly declined due to both human activities and natural factors. The Alligator Head Foundation operates in East Portland, one of the Caribbean’s most biodiverse regions, to counteract this decline. Using rope and tree-style nurseries, they grow resilient species like Staghorn and Elkhorn corals, which can withstand bleaching and disease. With its rainforests, jagged coastline, mangroves, and the Blue Lagoon, Portland is a unique natural treasure. Coral restoration here serves to protect ecosystems, support local fisheries, and enhance climate resilience.

Gallery

Blue Economy Giamaica Barriera Corallina East Portland 5 3x

Blue Economy Giamaica Barriera Corallina East Portland 4 3x

Blue Economy Giamaica Barriera Corallina East Portland 3 3x

Blue Economy Giamaica Barriera Corallina East Portland 2 3x

Blue Economy Giamaica Barriera Corallina East Portland 1 3x

Stakeholders and local partners

Who are the key stakeholders?

The project is built on a wide network of local and international partnerships, including the Alligator Head Foundation, the Portland Marine Lab, the University of the West Indies, and organizations like the Portland Environment Protection Association. Over time, research institutions, conservation groups, and international collaborators - such as Mexico’s UNESCO-listed Cabo Pulmo, which shared its best practices - have joined the effort. The local community plays a central role: more than 40 public consultations engaged fishermen, schools, and community centers to ensure decisions addressed local needs. In 2016, following extensive research and advocacy, the East Portland Special Fishery Conservation Area was established, now recognized as a Mission Blue Hope Spot. The foundation supports education, awareness campaigns, and research initiatives, providing practical tools to build a sustainable relationship between the community and the marine environment.

Project Developer:

Objectives and approach

The goal is to restore Portland’s coral reef and strengthen the resilience of local communities, creating a participatory conservation model that is recognized internationally.

The project seeks to revive Portland’s coral ecosystems by cultivating and transplanting resilient coral species, supporting marine biodiversity, and creating new protected zones. A central goal is to foster a sustainable relationship between local communities and the sea, strengthening fishing and tourism activities in a responsible manner. Environmental education, scientific research, and awareness-raising are key tools to ensure that future generations inherit a vibrant and productive ecosystem.

The approach integrates science, community involvement, and participatory governance. Key coral species are cultivated in marine nurseries using innovative techniques to enhance their survival and resilience. These corals are then reintroduced into degraded reefs, continuously monitored, and studied to assess their impact on the ecosystem. At the same time, the project promotes training and workshops for fishermen and local residents, encouraging sustainable practices and new economic opportunities. Advocacy efforts have already led to the establishment of a marine protected area, and the long-term goal is to achieve UNESCO recognition for the entire Portland region as a site of global natural significance.

Sustainable Development Goals

Supporting this project you’re contributing to the following SDGs:

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