The problem of coral bleaching in the Thai sea is that the number of coral reefs is significantly decreasing. This is due to global warming causing bleaching events and human activities such as releasing wastewater from industrial factories and communities, overfishing, improper fishing methods, abandoning fishing gear near coral reefs, and littering the sea. As a result, the once beautiful and vibrant coral reefs have decreased to only one-third of their original coverage.

          Did you know? Coral is an animal with no backbone and a soft body. It builds its hardened structure by secreting calcium carbonate to coat its body. This makes it structurally robust and provides habitat for marine life, up to 25%. Additionally, it acts as a protective barrier against waves and currents.

          For this reason, the Marine Science Institute, SCG; the Company for Production of Products and Construction Materials Limited, in collaboration with the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, and the Earth Agenda Foundation, have initiated the “Save Our Seas” project to restore coral reefs, which are vital marine resources. This project utilizes “coral nurseries” (3D Printing-based artificial coral nurseries) to facilitate the growth and development of coral larvae, creating aesthetically pleasing, spherical structures resembling real coral reefs. These nurseries are environmentally friendly and conducive to marine life, fostering biodiversity and organizing educational activities to raise awareness and instil a love for the sea among the general public. The project aims to disseminate knowledge about coral reefs and coral reef restoration to the public.