Global Coralition is an organization that seamlessly blends art, science, and community engagement to regenerate our marine ecosystems. By creating and installing large-scale art sculptures in the ocean, which then transform into thriving coral reefs and marine habitats, Global Coralition not only revitalizes damaged ecosystems but also sparks both local and global awareness about the urgent challenges facing our oceans. These breathtaking underwater installations draw divers and tourists from around the world, creating new opportunities for ecotourism initiatives that help bolster local economies and elevate the conversation around marine conservation. Each project is strategically paired with marine protection, coral farming, and mangrove restoration initiatives that form a holistic “ridge to reef” approach that strengthens local economies, improves livelihoods, and enhances resilience to climate change.
The Global Coralition Origin Story
The origins of Global Coralition started in the underwater world of Koh Tao, Thailand, where co-founders Angeline Chen and Kyle Block had a life-changing experience. As art activists, divers, and social entrepreneurs with backgrounds in economic development and communications, they fell in love with the coral reefs that teemed with life beneath the ocean’s surface. However, this love quickly turned into concern as they witnessed the rapid decline of one of their favorite reefs, a stark reminder of the environmental threats facing coral ecosystems worldwide.
Determined to make a difference, Angeline and Kyle began exploring how art could be used as a catalyst for reef regeneration. Inspired by the power of art to communicate and inspire, they envisioned large-scale sculptures that could transform barren ocean floors into thriving marine habitats. This idea was also deeply influenced by Angeline’s father, a Nobel Prize-winning biochemist whose work has been instrumental in studying coral resilience to higher pH levels and rising water temperatures. The scientific foundation laid by her father’s research provided the perfect complement to their artistic vision, reinforcing the potential of combining art and science for environmental restoration.
Their entrepreneurial journey was further inspired by environmental pioneers like Jane Goodall, whose visit to Angeline’s school in China left a lasting impression, and ocean conservationists Sylvia Earle and Captain Paul Watson, who exemplify the impact of dedicated environmental activism. These figures, along with innovative projects like The Ocean Cleanup and the influence of modern-day change-makers like MrBeast, fueled their drive to create a world where art and science converge to regenerate marine ecosystems and uplift communities.
A Vision for Global Change
Global Coralition’s work is centered around a powerful vision for global change: transitioning from extractive models of resource use to regenerative models that not only restore ecological balance but also uplift the communities that depend on these resources. By integrating art with scientific and community-led conservation efforts, Global Coralition is demonstrating that environmental restoration can be a source of cultural enrichment, economic development, and social empowerment.
One of their flagship projects, Atabey in the Dominican Republic, is one of the best examples of this vision.. Atabey is a large-scale underwater sculpture that serves as both an art piece and a functional reef, designed to foster marine biodiversity and act as a catalyst for ecotourism in the region. This project not only creates a habitat for marine life but also engages the local community in its maintenance and protection, promoting a sustainable, locally-led approach to conservation.
In addition to Atabey, Global Coralition is spearheading projects in several other locations, including Bali, Indonesia, and the Maldives. In Bali, they are working on a series of sculptures that will support coral farming initiatives, while in the Maldives, their efforts are focused on restoring mangrove forests and creating marine protected areas.
Global Coralition’s “ridge to reef” approach integrates multiple environmental strategies—marine protection, coral farming, and mangrove restoration—into a cohesive effort that addresses the entire ecosystem. This holistic model not only improves water quality and strengthens the resilience of coral reefs but also enhances food security and economic opportunities for local communities.
How You Can Help
You can support Global Coralition’s mission by spreading the word about their coral restoration work, participating in their initiatives, or contributing financially to help expand their reach.
