Mexico Coral Reef Education and Restoration Program

The Mexico Coral Reef Education and Restoration Program is a science-based youth initiative focused on marine conservation and community resilience along the Riviera Maya. In partnership with Centro Ecológico Akumal (CEA)and supported by the NOA Fund, the program offers local students hands-on experience in coral reef restoration and education on the importance of protecting the Mesoamerican Reef.

Participants begin with classroom and field-based sessions in Akumal, where they learn about coral biology, threats to reef ecosystems, and the environmental and economic importance of the Mesoamerican Reef—the second-largest barrier reef system in the world. This ecosystem supports fisheries, protects coastlines, and sustains tourism, making it vital to the livelihoods of thousands of people across Mexico and Central America.

Guided by NOA and CEA marine biologists, students take part in restoration activities such as coral gardening, reef monitoring, and water quality testing. These field experiences are complemented by workshops on climate change, ocean acidification, and sustainable coastal development.

The program also emphasizes community involvement, encouraging students to design small-scale awareness campaigns and take part in coastal clean-up events to reduce land-based pollution affecting reef health.