Since 2014, the Save the Beach team has been collecting data by applying the Reef Check (RC) protocol.

Started in 1997, Reef Check is an international NGO dedicated to the conservation of reef ecosystems. Among different goals, the NGO developed a worldwide standardized method to monitor the health state of the reef.

The methodology provides to survey at 2 depths (5m and 10m) for a total of 100m length by 5m width. The indicators are broad and include characterisation of the substrate, the fish community and of the macro-invertebrates.

Starting from the reef surrounding Villingili Island we expanded our dataset by joining the Scientific Cruises Maldives organised every year with the ISSD (International School for Scientific Divers), Albatros Top Boat Tour Operator and the University of Genoa (Italy).

Since 2015 we had the opportunity to survey 7 different atolls with a total of more than 100 survey dives!

During the Cruise, we also train new Eco-divers!

Every year we teach a team of 8 people per week how to plan and execute the RC protocol and by the end of the Cruise they can get the certification for “Reef Check Indopacific”