Mars Assisted Reef Restoration System

The Mars Assisted Reef Restoration Solution is a low-cost community-based reef restoration solution that is rapid and scalable. Our supply-chain approach to reef restoration diversifies and maximises community participation. We choose appropriate sites around the world and work closely with local communities and partners to rebuild reefs on degraded rubble fields. We use hexagonal ‘Reef Star’ structures, each with 15 sustainably harvested coral fragments attached. We deploy Reef Stars in an interlocking web across rubble beds – it is possible to install >5000 coral fragments per day. The web of Reef Stars stabilises loose rubble and provides a platform for rapid coral growth and full reef development within 3 years. We monitor socio-ecological performance and have developed a training programme for marine park managers, conservation practitioners and tourism operators. More information is at our website www.buildingcoral.com