Gili Eco Trust and Biorock: Growing New Reefs in the Gili Islands

The turquoise water and thriving reefs of the Gili Islands do not look after themselves. Since the early 2000s, a local non-profit, the Gili Eco Trust, has worked with island communities, dive centres and businesses to protect the marine environment of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air.

Its best-known project is Biorock. Steel frames are placed on the seabed and connected to a very low, safe electric current, which causes limestone minerals to build up on the structure. Coral fragments attached to the frames grow on this natural substrate, and over time the structures become thriving artificial reefs, full of fish and colourful growth. Snorkellers and divers can see Biorock structures around the islands, including at Halik Reef, just off the north coast of Gili Trawangan.

The Trust's work reaches well beyond the reef. It installs mooring buoys so boats do not drop anchors on coral, runs waste collection and recycling programmes, organises beach and reef clean-ups, educates local schools and visitors, and supports clinics for the islands' horses and cats.

Much of this is funded by visitors. Most dive centres collect a small contribution for the Trust with your first dive, and anyone can donate or join a clean-up. Simple gestures help too: carry a refillable bottle, refuse plastic straws and never stand on or touch coral.

At The Gili Beach Resort, Halik Reef is our front garden; we lend snorkelling gear so you can discover it, and we ask every guest to treat it gently.