Expedition Akumal is community initiative of local dive professionals at the Akumal Dive Center, and international volunteers volunteering both under and above water to assist with research into coral reef restoration and the science behind it. Our organisation is unique in that it incorporates real science, cutting edge techniques and local capacity building to restore and protect the coral reef for the future of Akumal's coastal community. We are lucky enough to have support from the Hotel Akumal Caribe, The Coral Conservation Society, and academic support and training from the Integrative Reef Conservation Research Laboratory, Reef Systems Academic Unit, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). The Akumal Coral Reef Restoration Project works through a five pronged approach:
• Developing healthy coral reef regrowth in areas that have sustained significant damage.
• Creating strong bonds within the community to promote participation and support for coral reef conservation
• Promoting awareness about Mesoamerican Reef ecology while informing and entertaining tourists.
• Generating unique eco-tourism and events that involve and engage local businesses and residents. We are devoted to protecting the reef ecosystem to ensure that it lives for future generations to experience and enjoy, and contributing to the scientific study of coral reefs, advancing the science of conservation and restoration.
