Coral reefs are important for many different reasons aside from supposedly containing the most diverse ecosystems on the planet. They protect coastlines from the damaging effects of wave action and tropical storms, provide habitats and shelter for many marine organisms. Tourists coming to dive need not only dive boats and guides, but also restaurants, hotels and commercial and entertainment facili
ties. In many cases, tourism associated with reefs has expanded to transform the entire economy of a region. This of course has both positive and negative consequences for both the marine environment and the communities involved. For example, someone who harvests sea turtle eggs may choose to sell turtle tours as an alternative livelihood. On the other hand, an unmonitored number of tourists may result in environmental problems such as coral damage, pollution and inadequate waste treatment. This facts has moved a group of divers from various background to form Yayasan Terumbu Rupa (YTR) : A platform which aim to cultivate, preserve and conserving coral reefs throughout Indonesia through ART installation work. YTR is creating new ARTificial Reef projects. The Sculptures, created by Internationally recognized Artist, Teguh Ostenrik, are the medium for the coral to grow using Biorock Technology. The value added of this project is that the ART Sculpture itself will be an attraction since day one it goes underwater. Hence it will lessen the burden of natural corals as diving spot.
