From Inspiration to Action: Implementing Reef Star in Alor

Globally, coral reef destruction is now a serious issue-not only because of the threat to marine biodiversity, but also because of the impact on livelihoods, such as fishing, tourism, and coastal resilience. When natural conservation efforts are not enough to stop the destruction, active intervention becomes essential. This is where technology such as Reef Star, developed by MARS Sustainable Solutions (MSS), comes in as one of the answers.

The Reef Star is a six-foot star-shaped structure made of a steel frame and sand-coated. Its main function is as an artificial substrate on which coral fragments are attached to accelerate reef regeneration. This design is not just aesthetic. The shape and materials were chosen to provide stability, natural surface roughness, and ease of mass installation on the seafloor. This method has been applied in various locations with significant results, such as on Bontosua Island (South Sulawesi), the Great Barrier Reef (Australia), and several spots in Indonesia. Now, it's time to consider why this method is so relevant-especially for a region like Alor.

Various approaches have been used in various places-from the simplest such as rockpiles using limestone, reefcake methods (flat concrete substrates), to local models such as cement “Roti Buaya” (Crocodile Bread) and so on. All these methods have their place. But in the context of our needs in Alor-the dynamic oceanographic factors, the type of damage being done and the limited resources, Reef Star offers a solution that is quick to implement, structurally stable and allows for direct community engagement.

Why We Chose Reef Star

1. A Scalable Response to a Growing Crisis

   We are facing the reality of ongoing coral reef degradation. While traditional coral transplantation methods remain important, they are often only effective at a small scale or for educational purposes. Reef Star offers a scalable solution—in a short amount of time, hundreds or even thousands of units can be deployed by trained local teams, creating a coral "platform" as wide as a football field within weeks.

   
   

2. Faster and More Efficient Through Structured Propagation

   Reef Star allows us to conduct active and systematic coral propagation. Coral fragments can be directly tied onto the structure, and Reef Star units are installed on the seabed quickly and in an organized manner. Compared to simpler methods like rockpiles or “roti buaya” (lit. “crocodile bread,” a flat concrete mold used locally), which rely on natural attachment, Reef Star is more efficient in terms of time, labor, and space. In a relatively short period, large-scale rehabilitation areas can be established—an essential factor in regions where access is limited and degradation is extensive.

   
   

3. Stable in Strong Currents Like Those in Alor

   Reef Star is designed to withstand strong ocean currents—a common characteristic of Alor’s waters. Its interlocking legs form a stable structure when arranged in large numbers, making it resistant to shifting even without heavy anchoring. This physical durability makes it suitable for complex oceanographic environments.

   
   

4. Inspired by Proven Best Practices from MSS

   We didn't just read about Reef Star in theory—we witnessed it firsthand through Mars Sustainable Solutions' (MSS) implementation in South Sulawesi. We saw how this method revived damaged reef zones, restored marine biodiversity, and actively involved local communities in the process. Through direct training with the MSS team, we gained not only technical knowledge, but also inspiration and hope that this approach could be adapted to Alor. Reef Star is not just a tool; it is a story of success that can be replicated.

   
   

5. Practical and Accessible for Local Communities

   Though not as simple as rockpile methods, Reef Star remains practical and appropriate for community use. Assembly and installation can be performed by local residents with short training sessions. In some locations, even women’s groups are involved in producing the units—opening opportunities for economic participation and social empowerment. For us, this is a major advantage. Ecosystem restoration should go hand in hand with social restoration—strengthening relationships and rebuilding trust between communities and conservation efforts.

In the world of conservation, we often find ourselves between two extremes: high-tech solutions that are expensive and complex, and ultra-simple methods that may lack durability. Reef Star offers a balance—strong in the sea, quick in the field, and manageable by the community. What makes it even more meaningful is its evidence-based and community-driven approach. It’s not just an underwater structure; it’s a tool for education, empowerment, and collaboration.

From Inspiration to Action

Reef Star is not a silver bullet, but it is part of the answer. We believe that, with proper adaptation, it can become an effective tool for starting coral reef recovery in Alor.

Our inspiration from MSS has motivated us to try, test, and develop this approach locally. With a spirit of collaboration and shared effort, Reef Star can serve as a bridge between destruction and hope—connecting damaged seas to a sustainable future.