Project: Malaulalo Mangrove Restoration |A Community-Powered Ecosystem Revival
Protecting a Global Treasure in the Solomon Islands
Nestled in the Three Sisters group of islands in Makira Ulawa Province, Solomon Islands, Malaulalo Island is a place of profound ecological significance. It is home to the world’s largest stand-alone coral, a discovery that brought international recognition from the National Geographic Pristine Seas Expedition. Yet, this fragile marine ecosystem faces an imminent threat: the rapid die-off of its vital mangrove forests.
The Malaulalo Mangrove Restoration Project, initiated by the Malaulalo Conservation and Tourism Association (MCTA), is a direct response to this crisis and supported by MWT Resilience Fund.
The MCTA’s mission is to revitalise and rejuvenate the mangrove forests on Malaulalo Island in order to help support the marine ecosystem and the World's largest stand-alone coral in the world.
A Legacy of Conservation Meets a Modern Crisis
For 15 years, the local community, under the leadership of Traditional Chief Dennis Marita, has protected Malaulalo Island's terrestrial and marine environments. This long-standing dedication is the bedrock of our project.
The threat, however, has evolved. Scientists from Pristine Seas have confirmed that sea warming and high salinity are causing widespread mangrove mortality. While community elder Uncle John Talairamo has heroically planted seedlings for a decade, his solitary efforts cannot match the scale of the loss. The degradation of the mangroves directly jeopardizes the survival of the great coral and the health of the entire marine food web.
Our Strategy: The Living Classroom
We believe the most sustainable conservation is rooted in education and empowerment. This project is designed not just to plant trees, but to cultivate stewards.
Under the guidance of educator Eileen Rhonna Marita, the project transforms into a "living classroom."We are scaling up Uncle John's legacy by formally engaging the next generation. Our approach is two-fold:
Ecological Action: Replant the shoreline with resilient mangrove species to mitigate coastal erosion and restore the marine nursery habitat.
Community Education: Empower youth with the knowledge and skills to protect their environment for decades to come.
How We Will Achieve This
With your support, we will:
Mobilize & Educate: Partner with four community high schools, engaging 40 students in hands-on planting and educational workshops on mangrove ecology, climate threats, and restoration techniques.
Ensure Safety & Support: Provide all necessary logistics, including safe transportation, meals, safety equipment, and educational materials.
Build a Legacy: Create a corps of informed young advocates who will carry the work of conservation forward.
Alignment with Global Goals
This project directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
SDG 13 (Climate Action): Mangroves protect coastlines from erosion and sequester carbon.
SDG 14 (Life Below Water): Restored forests provide crucial habitats for fish, turtles, and other marine life.
SDG 15 (Life on Land): Healthy mangroves support biodiversity and sustain community livelihoods.
Our Vision for the Future
Short-Term: 40 students gain practical knowledge and a deepened connection to their natural heritage.
Long-Term: The mangrove forests of Malaulalo are fully restored over the next decade, ensuring a resilient and abundant marine ecosystem for generations.
This project is more than conservation; it is an investment in a community’s future and the guardians of a global wonder. Join us in supporting this critical work.
