Who we are
ABOUT REEFSYSTEMS FOUNDATION
Restoring nature by putting restoration in local hands.
ReefSystems Foundation is a Dutch non-profit organization established to accelerate marine ecosystem restoration around the world.
We believe restoration becomes more effective and lasting when the knowledge, infrastructure and responsibility to restore ecosystems are embedded locally.
That is why we work with communities, conservation organizations, researchers, governments and funders to build long-term local capacity for marine restoration.
How it started
ReefSystems Foundation grew from a simple observation: innovative restoration technologies alone are not enough to restore marine ecosystems at scale.
Long-term restoration requires local knowledge, skills, infrastructure and funding. The Foundation was established to bring these elements together and make restoration locally accessible. By connecting communities with conservation organisations, researchers and funders, we help create the conditions for marine restoration to continue and grow long after an individual project has started.
Foundation & ReefSystems
ReefSystems Foundation and ReefSystems B.V. share the same ambition, but play different roles in achieving it.
ReefSystems B.V. develops technologies and solutions for marine ecosystem restoration. ReefSystems Foundation is a non-profit organization focused on creating public benefit through locally led restoration, training and partnerships. By bringing together restoration technology, scientific expertise, funding and local knowledge, the Foundation helps communities build the capacity to restore and manage their own marine ecosystems over the long term.
The people behind the Foundation
Board of the ReefSystems Foundation
SECRETARY
Astrid is an experienced entrepreneur and impact-driven professional with a background in building and supporting organisations that combine business with positive social and environmental impact. As Secretary, she contributes her experience in entrepreneurship, strategy and organisational development.
CHAIRMAN
René is an experienced ecologist and senior researcher specializing in biodiversity, ecosystem services and nature conservation. As Chairman, he brings scientific expertise and extensive experience in connecting research, policy and practice to support the Foundation’s long-term mission.
TREASURER
Joost brings extensive experience in finance, business and organizational governance. As Treasurer, he supports the Foundation in maintaining sound financial management, transparency and accountability, helping ensure that resources are used effectively to advance its mission.
Executive team
(left)
Executive Director
Strategy & Partnerships
Jesse is the founder of ReefSystems and Executive Director of ReefSystems Foundation. With a background in business strategy and marine restoration, he focuses on developing partnerships, securing funding and turning restoration opportunities into scalable programmes with long-term local impact.
(right)
Technical Director
Design & Innovation
Max is an industrial designer and co-founder of ReefSystems, specialising in the development of practical solutions for marine ecosystem restoration. He leads the technical development and implementation of restoration systems, translating ecological challenges into solutions that can be produced and deployed locally.
Our partners
