Collaborative projects driving sustainable change for coastal fisheries
Our work is dedicated to creating lasting impact through science-led, collaborative and outcome-focused projects.
From climate adaptation and resource management to community training and reef resilience, each project is a step toward healthier oceans and empowered coastal fisheries communities.
We partner with local leaders, scientists, governments, and organisations to deliver sustainable solutions that respond to the unique challenges facing coastal regions, especially across the Indo-Pacific.
PROJECTS WITH IMPACT
COMMUNITY MARINE CHAMPIONS
Empowering Local Leaders in Vanuatu
The Community Marine Champions program is transforming coastal stewardship in Vanuatu by empowering local leaders to protect their marine environments. In a region where communities have long practised self-governance under customary tenure, the pressures of modernisation are now challenging traditional resource management. Recognising this need, C₂O Fisheries launched Vanuatu's first Marine Champion program from 2016 to 2018.
This groundbreaking initiative identified and trained over 30 individuals from across Vanuatu as 'Marine Champions'. Through specialised workshops they gained leadership skills, self-awareness, environmental knowledge, and practical monitoring skills. Today, these Champions deliver environmental training in their communities and represent their villages at regional environmental networks, taking on key roles such as Chairwoman of the Northwest Tasivanua Environment Network, and even founding eco-tourism ventures.
With renewed skills, confidence, and a passion for conservation, these Champions are making an enduring impact. As we expand this program across Vanuatu and elsewhere, the Marine Champions network continues to inspire, educate, and lead the way toward a more sustainable future for Pacific coastal communities.
PROJECTS WITH IMPACT
COMMUNITY MARINE MONITORING TOOLKIT
Empowering Pacific Communities to Sustain Coastal Resources
The Community Marine Monitoring Toolkit is revolutionising resource management for Pacific communities, giving them the knowledge and the tools to protect their marine environments in a sustainable and accessible way. Communities in Vanuatu’s North Efate shared with us that previous marine monitoring programs were too technical, expensive, and lacked clear results. With these insights, we partnered with local communities to develop Vanuatu's first Community Marine Monitoring Toolkit—an adaptable, science-based tool designed specifically for community use.
Supported by partners like SPC, FFEM, AFD, and WCS, the Toolkit provides communities with straightforward methods to monitor reef health, fish catches, seagrass, mangroves, and other key indicators. Designed for ease of use, it includes a unique feedback loop, delivering instant results that are easy to understand, and helping communities make informed decisions to protect their resources.
Since its introduction, the Toolkit has empowered communities with increased awareness of coastal issues, an early warning system for environmental changes, and vital insights into resource management resulting in management action. The Toolkit has also opened doors to eco-tourism and strengthened food security. This adaptable tool has been implemented in several regions, from Vanuatu to the Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands, Wallis and Futuna, and French Polynesia, making sustainable marine management a shared goal across the Pacific. As we expand the Toolkit across more regions, we’re proud to see communities take control of their coastal future, with a resource that aligns with local needs and national policy goals.