Marine Conservation Worldwide


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Gili Eco Trust

Gili Eco Trust is a pioneering NGO based on the Gili Islands, Indonesia, working to protect marine life, restore coral reefs, and promote sustainable tourism.

The Gili Eco Trust was founded in 2000 to combat destructive fishing practices such as dynamite and cyanide fishing around the Gili Islands. Since then, it has grown into one of Indonesia’s leading marine conservation NGOs.

Their work includes:

  • Coral restoration – installing Biorock structures and artificial reefs to help damaged coral reefs recover.

  • Marine life protection – safeguarding turtles, reef fish, and sharks through monitoring and awareness campaigns.

  • Waste management – organizing island-wide waste collection, recycling initiatives, and eco-bricking projects.

  • Sustainable tourism – collaborating with dive centers, hotels, and local businesses to implement eco-friendly practices and encourage responsible tourism.

  • Education & outreach – running programs for local communities and schools to raise awareness about marine conservation.

With over two decades of experience, Gili Eco Trust shows how local communities, tourism, and conservation can work together to build a sustainable future for the ocean.

Gili Island, Indonesia

Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air – are three small tropical islands located just off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia. Known for their crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and resident sea turtles, the Gilis are a world-famous destination for divers and eco-tourists. However, rapid tourism growth and unsustainable practices have put serious pressure on the fragile marine ecosystem.

Gili Eco Trust – Ongoing Programs

The Gili Eco Trust runs several long-term conservation and sustainability programs on the Gili Islands to protect marine ecosystems and support the local community.

🌊 1. Coral Reef Restoration

  • Installation of Biorock reef structures to regenerate damaged corals.

  • Continuous monitoring of reef health and fish populations.

  • Collaboration with dive centers to expand artificial reefs.

🐢 2. Marine Life Protection

  • Ongoing sea turtle monitoring and protection of nesting sites.

  • Awareness campaigns about reef-safe diving and snorkeling.

  • Data collection on sharks, rays, and reef fish.

♻️ 3. Waste Management & Recycling

  • Daily island waste collection and sorting.

  • Plastic recycling, composting, and eco-brick projects.

  • Campaigns to reduce single-use plastics in tourism.

🌍 4. Sustainable Tourism & Community Engagement

  • Partnering with hotels, restaurants, and dive shops to promote eco-standards.

  • Training programs for local guides and businesses.

  • Regular community clean-ups and school education projects.

Do you love this cause? This is how you can help!

  • Support their coral restoration by volunteering with reef monitoring and Biorock projects.

  • Join a beach or reef clean-up during your stay on the Gili Islands.

  • Choose eco-friendly tourism: dive with responsible operators and say no to single-use plastics.

  • Donate directly to Gili Eco Trust to support their conservation and community programs.

  • Spread the word by sharing their work with friends and on social media.


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