Coral Vita is making waves in both marine conservation and economic development through their groundbreaking approach to coral restoration in The Bahamas. Featured in Borgen Magazine, the story highlights how this pioneering social enterprise is addressing two critical challenges simultaneously: the rapid decline of coral reefs and poverty reduction in coastal communities.
Using revolutionary micro-fragmentation technology at the world’s first commercial land-based coral farm, Coral Vita grows corals up to 50 times faster than traditional methods. This innovative process not only accelerates reef restoration but also strengthens corals to better survive climate change impacts through assisted evolution.
The economic impact is equally impressive. With coral reef tourism contributing 70% of The Bahamas’ GDP, Coral Vita’s work directly supports the livelihoods of thousands. The company demonstrates that environmental restoration and economic development can work hand-in-hand, employing a workforce that is 50% Bahamian and serving as both a restoration facility and educational center.
Despite facing challenges including Hurricane Dorian, Coral Vita’s resilience and commitment to community-based capacity building showcase how for-profit social enterprises can scale solutions to global problems while creating meaningful local impact.
