Nusa Penida MPA, located off Bali’s southern coast, encompasses three islands—Penida, Lembongan, and Ceningan—known for their stunning marine biodiversity, including manta rays, sunfish, turtles, and sharks. This marine protected area (MPA) spans 1,400 hectares of coral reefs and supports 576 fish species and 296 coral species. For the 46,000 residents, fishing, seaweed farming, and tourism are primary income sources. However, with a sharp increase in annual visitors, the ecosystem faces significant pressures. While tourism boosts the local economy, it threatens the sustainability of these critical habitats, calling for responsible and sustainable tourism management to preserve the MPA’s unique marine life.
The need for sustainable tourism in Nusa Penida Marine Protected Area, Indonesia
Due to increased tourism, Nusa Penida MPA, a rich marine sanctuary off Bali, is experiencing growing ecosystem stress. With over 300,000 annual visitors, sustainable practices are essential to protecting biodiversity and supporting local livelihoods.
Project Info
Location
BNC focus
Marine Protected Areas
Funding duration
16 months (2023–2024)
Project developer
Reef-World Foundation (RWF)
UNEP Coordinating Body on the Seas of East Asia (COBSEA)
Project Partner
More information
Discover how Green Fins protects coral reefs by promoting sustainable tourism practices and empowering communities to make a difference.
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A sustainable nature-based solution for people and planet
The Reef-World Foundation (RWF), in partnership with local and international stakeholders, is leading an initiative to promote sustainable marine tourism across Indonesia’s coral reef Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Through the Green Fins initiative, this project aims to mitigate tourism-related impacts on coral reefs by conducting on-site assessments, training dive and snorkel operators, and implementing a certification scheme that encourages responsible practices.
This initiative seeks to set a benchmark for eco-conscious standards in the marine tourism sector. A central aspect is developing a feasibility study for sustainable tourism within the Bali Marine Protected Area Network, evaluating prospects for private investment and the environmental, social, and economic benefits that responsible tourism can deliver.
BNCFF's support in unlocking sustainable marine tourism
BNCFF funding empowers the Reef-World Foundation (RWF) to expand the Green Fins initiative’s reach and impact. This support enables essential activities, including financing a feasibility study, fostering local stakeholder engagement, and designing sustainable financial models for Marine Protected Areas. BNCFF’s investment is instrumental in guiding Green Fins toward greater self-sufficiency and scalability, facilitating broader adoption of sustainable tourism practices across the region.
Impacts created
Nature
This project spans 80,000 hectares of Indonesia’s Marine Protected Areas and is dedicated to preserving coral reef ecosystems. Improving reef health supports diverse marine life, including hundreds of fish and coral species, ensuring the resilience of these biodiverse habitats.
People
This initiative empowers local communities by promoting sustainable tourism practices that protect natural resources and improve livelihoods. Residents can benefit economically through responsible tourism while safeguarding their environment for future generations.
Business
The Green Fins initiative attracts eco-conscious travelers, driving sustainable tourism that benefits local businesses. By creating demand for responsible tourism services, the project supports existing enterprises and opens new employment opportunities in the region.
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