Barefoot Conservation
Barefoot Conservation is a marine conservation organisation dedicated to protecting the marine life and coral reef ecosystems of Raja Ampat, Indonesia, with a particular focus on the waters surrounding Arborek Island — an area at the very heart of the Coral Triangle, the global epicentre of marine biodiversity.
The organisation is based on Arborek Island, a small community island renowned for its vibrant coral gardens, regular visits from manta rays, and rich marine life. These reefs face growing threats from climate change, unsustainable fishing, and pollution. Barefoot Conservation undertakes regular coral reef surveys to monitor ecosystem health, conducts restoration projects to replant damaged areas, and works to protect iconic species such as manta rays and sea turtles.
Another fundamental part of Barefoot Conservation’s work is to foster sustainable, ocean-aware economic development within its local communities. Many island residents rely heavily on fishing for their livelihoods, which can place additional pressure on an already fragile ecosystem. The organisation works alongside the community to provide alternative sources of income — including eco-tourism, sustainable fishing practices, and environmental education — ensuring that development goes hand in hand with marine protection.
Marine education and scientific research are also at the core of Barefoot Conservation’s activities. The organisation offers marine biology training, English language classes for local children, and workshops on sustainable resource use. Volunteers and scientists work side by side in gathering vital data, engaging with schools, and supporting community-led initiatives.
Barefoot Conservation welcomes volunteers from all over the world who share a genuine love for the ocean and a commitment to protecting it. Together with the people of Arborek, they help safeguard one of the most pristine and biodiverse marine environments on the planet.
- Surveying and restoring coral reefs around Arborek Island
- Monitoring manta ray and sea turtle populations
- Delivering environmental education and English classes to local children
- Training community members in eco-tourism and sustainable livelihoods
- Collaborating with villagers to reduce destructive fishing practices
Arborek Island
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
A tiny palm-fringed island at the heart of Raja Ampat, famous for its friendly community and vibrant marine life. Just a few steps off the jetty you enter a stunning underwater world of corals, reef fish, giant clams, and sometimes even manta rays. The village is known for traditional handwoven crafts, cultural dances, and award-winning eco-tourism. Small enough to walk around in 20 minutes, Arborek offers homestays, warm hospitality, and unforgettable snorkeling and diving experiences.
BAREFOOT CONSERVATION ONGOING PROGRAMs
To protect and restore the fragile reefs around Arborek Island, Barefoot Conservation conducts regular coral reef health surveys and undertakes active restoration. Damaged reef areas are rehabilitated by replanting healthy coral fragments and maintaining artificial reef structures that provide a stable base for new coral growth. These efforts not only accelerate reef recovery but also improve habitat quality for species such as manta rays, sea turtles, and countless reef fish.
Barefoot Conservation’s team, together with volunteers, also monitors key marine species, gathering data on population health and behaviour. This information supports both local conservation strategies and wider scientific research in the Raja Ampat region. Alongside this, the organisation runs community outreach programmes, delivering environmental education and English classes, and training residents in eco-tourism and sustainable fishing practices — ensuring that the protection of Arborek’s reefs goes hand in hand with the well-being of the island’s people.
Do you love this cause? This is how you can help!
Barefoot Conservation is always looking for motivated and hard-working friends of the ocean, who are willing to actively learn about coral reefs and “sea gardening”. Due to Malaysian regulations, Barefoot Conservation cannot collect donations at this point in time. So to fund its amazing work, the organization relies solely on the passionate eco-tourists who come to stay on Arborek Island for several weeks, to volunteer their time, meet like-minded people, and enjoy the experience of a lifetime! Be careful, because once you get there… you might never want to leave.
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