The MSC Foundation is marking a year of meaningful progress in The Bahamas, strengthening partnerships and expanding its work in coral restoration, marine science, education and stakeholder engagement, particularly in Bimini.

Since opening its Marine Conservation Center at Ocean Cay in April 2025, the Foundation has established a strong on-the-ground presence –advancing coral restoration, delivering hands-on training for over 20 marine science students, and engaging more than 17,000 visitors in ocean education, reinforcing its long-term commitment to The Bahamas’ globally significant marine ecosystems.

In recognition of Earth Day, the Foundation is reflecting on the first year of impact of its Marine Conservation Center — highlighting how sustained collaborative efforts, from coral restoration and marine science to education and public awareness, contribute to meaningful progress, reinforcing that every action counts and every voice matters in safeguarding the ocean.

“Our work in The Bahamas is grounded in partnership, science, and shared responsibility,” said Emeline Bouchet, MSC Foundation Marine Programme Manager based at Ocean Cay. “As we mark Earth Day, it is an opportunity to highlight on how our efforts must extend beyond restoration to building on local knowledge and capacity–ensuring that Bahamian students and communities are actively involved in research, education, and environmental stewardship.”

Advancing Coral Restoration and Research

A defining milestone was the opening in April of the Marine Conservation Center at Ocean Cay, a purpose-built facility bringing together coral restoration, scientific research, training and public engagement.

The Center now serves as the operational hub combining science and hands-on fieldwork to maximise the growth and resilience of endangered coral species. Since opening, more than 600 corals have been grown in the underwater nursery, with over 250 successfully outplanted onto the surrounding reef, demonstrating resilience during peak summer temperatures.

In February 2026, the MSC Foundation and the Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS)further advanced their partnership through a coral species exchange at Ocean Cay, boosting nursery diversity and reef resilience with two species. PIMS also incorporated fragments of elkhorn coral (Acropora palmata) into the nurseries they manage under the Reef Rescue Network, increasing the genetic diversity of restoration stock and contributing to the Bahamas Coral Gene Bank.

Supporting Marine Science Research and Education

The Foundation has deepened its collaboration with the University of The Bahamas (UB), supporting the development of a dedicated marine science laboratory to bolster national research capacity and teaching.

Academic engagement continued throughout the year, including six graduate internships for students from the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University, supported by 12 associated field visits. Students from the University of The Bahamas and The Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute also took part in immersive, week-long courses at Ocean Cay, with 16 participants gaining hands-on learning in coral propagation, reef monitoring and restoration techniques.

Expanding Public Engagement

In its first year, the Marine Conservation Center has welcomed more than 17,000 international visitors since opening, serving as a key platform for public engagement in coral conservation.

Beyond Ocean Cay, the Foundation supported community initiatives in Bimini, including a beach cleanup involving more than 120 participants, and a new high school agricultural education initiative reaching up to 80 students during the 2025-26 school year.

A Long-Term Commitment to The Bahamas

The Foundation’s work over the past year reflects a long-term commitment that aligns environmental conservation with national development priorities, marine science education, and nature-based tourism. “As we look ahead, our focus is on translating this momentum into measurable, long-term impact,” added Daniela Picco, MSC Foundation Executive Director. “By deepening our partnerships and investing in local capacity, we will continue to support The Bahamas as a leader in marine conservation and sustainable development.”