The largest of the Bay Islands off the northern coast of Honduras, Roatan has gained worldwide popularity among travelers seeking sun, sand, and spectacular diving adventures. Characterized by high coral and sponge diversity, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef near Roatan is being threatened by uncontrolled development and irresponsible tourism activity. Acting as a pilot site for the implementation of the voluntary standards for marine recreation, the island of Roatan has been a CORAL partner for many years.

Read more about our projects in Honduras » [1]

Threats & Progress

Due to increasing popularity as a travel and cruise ship destination, massive immigration from the mainland, unplanned development, and uncontrolled sewage output, Roatan is experiencing increased pressure on its coral reef resources. CORAL continues to share its experience and advice with local community members, marine recreation providers, MPA managers, and other organizations as a means of identifying sustainable conservation opportunities for the region.

Read more about threats & progress » [2]

Our Partners in Honduras

CORAL is engaging stakeholders from the local community, government, and marine tourism industry to build long-term, sustainable conservation partnerships.

Read more about our partners in Honduras » [3]

Making Progress

The Roatan Marine Park [4] in Roatan, Honduras, is using a CORAL microgrant to improve the marine park's infrastructure, including installing channel markers, mooring buoys, and interpretive signs, and patrolling to prevent poaching.

 

CORAL REEF LEADERS

In Honduras, new leaders in the CORAL Reef Leadership Network [5] come from diverse backgrounds and play a variety of key roles in their communities. Leaders are reaching out to a broad audience in the Bay Islands, including students, community councils, and law enforcement agencies, in addition to the marine tourism sector.

Photo credit: Jenny Myton