Is Fiji’s BULA Reef Rescuing Coral or Just a Futile Experiment?

Off the coast of Malolo Lailai in Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands, there’s a bold new endeavor making waves—literally. The BULA Reef, a 147-foot structure that spells out ‘BULA’ (which means ‘hello’ or ‘life’ in Fijian), is here to combat the ugly reality of coral bleaching. Launched in June 2025, it’s not just a pretty sight; it’s a lifeline for marine life.

A vibrant lifeline for marine life, BULA Reef is Fiji’s bold response to coral bleaching.

Constructed with the help of the Plantation Island Resort and Corals for Conservation, this reef is paving the way for the future of coral restoration.

So, what’s happening a year on? Over a thousand colonies of heat-resistant corals were transplanted here. They’ve survived the heat, proving that resilience is the name of the game. Initial reports show these corals thriving, which is fantastic news. After all, who doesn’t want to see a coral party rather than a coral graveyard?

Dr. Austin Bowden-Kerby is the mastermind behind this project. He’s not just watching from the sidelines; he’s in the trenches, advocating for coral conservation. It sounds serious, and it is. The reef is already attracting fish, like rainbow-colored parrot fish and blue and yellow damsel fish. It’s a colorful reunion for the ocean’s residents.

As for the community, they’re all in. Local Fijian chiefs celebrated the reef’s inauguration on World Oceans Day, a fitting tribute to a place that symbolizes life in the sea and the tourism industry. This is not just another tourist attraction; it’s a hub for sustainable practices and environmental resilience.

Sure, the road ahead might be bumpy, with climate change looming like a dark cloud. But BULA Reef stands as a representation of what can be achieved when science meets community spirit. It’s a bold move, and one can only hope it shines a light on the path forward for coral reefs everywhere.