2021 is drawing to a close and where did the year go?
Time seems to fly by as we are slowly recovering from the effects of Covid-19 pandemic. Our team at Reef Check Malaysia have been working really hard to complete our planned conservation and community work before the monsoon season hits at the end of the year.
We have spent years building resilience of coral reefs around the islands we work on (Tioman Island, Mantanani Island and the Mersing Islands), improving social and economic resilience of the islanders by reducing their income dependence on marine-related activities, AND we will continue to do so! However, in 2022, we are looking to shift some of our focus to advocacy work.
As the hype from COP 26 in Glasgow is simmering down, we must not lose sight that more work needs to be done to ensure the pledges made by nations and private entities are translated into clear actionable plans to address climate change. Based on the progress (or lack of) from the other climate conferences – Kyoto Accords (1997) and Paris Climate Agreement (2016), we will need to push for quicker and more committed solutions from all parties.
For this year-end giving, we are hoping to raise funds for our advocacy work to mitigate effects of climate change and other anthropogenic pressures on the marine environment. We know better policies in managing fisheries, tourism, and pollution that is science-backed will lead to long-term and sustainable improvements for coral reefs and the associated ecosystems.
On Giving Tuesday (30 November 2021), Global Giving has a pool of USD 1 million matching funds for any amount raised on that day. If you’re able to, please make a donation to support our work. Our target is USD 5,000 and if 200 people donate just USD 25 to our cause, we will be able to spend time on public advocacy and awareness on effects of climate change on coral reefs.
If you wish to contribute to our cause, you can donate to us at the link below:
If you’re unable to donate at this time, there are other ways you can support us! You can advocate for our work by sharing our project with family members, colleagues, or friends. Even a quick mention on your social media would mean the world to us. We have prepared a digital toolkit just for you:
Thank you for being a part of our community and contributing to the ocean health. Happy holidays and here’s to a healthier 2022!