Kep Province, Cambodia

Restoring Oyster Reefs in Cambodia for Biodiversity & Local Livelihoods

This is the start of Cambodia’s first large-scale artificial reef restoration initiative — a transformative effort led by Marine Conservation Cambodia (MCC) in the coastal provinces of Kep and Kampot. Building on years of pioneering research, this project scales up restoration efforts through the deployment of MOSES artificial reefs from ReefSystems. These systems support the revival of vital shellfish and coral ecosystems while introducing sustainable aquaculture practices managed by — and for the benefit of — local communities.

The launch of this project depends on securing funding from the Ocean Grants.

Introducing the partners

Marine Conservation Cambodia (MCC)

Marine Conservation Cambodia is a locally rooted NGO dedicated to protecting Cambodia’s unique marine ecosystems. Founded in 2008, MCC has been instrumental in marine research, habitat restoration, and fisheries protection, particularly around Kep and Kampot. Through a combination of scientific innovation and community engagement, MCC has established Cambodia’s first Marine Fisheries Management Area (MFMA). The organization is a regional leader in seagrass, dolphin, and reef conservation and continues to pioneer sustainable ocean solutions that empower coastal communities.

Knai Bang Chatt (KBC)

ReefSystems Foundation is a non-profit organization focused on designing and deploying innovative reef restoration technologies that regenerate marine ecosystems and support local livelihoods. The foundation specializes in scalable, nature-inspired solutions like the MOSES artificial reef system, which facilitates biodiversity recovery and supports sustainable aquaculture. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, ReefSystems partners with local stakeholders to promote education, economic resilience, and environmental stewardship. Their mission bridges cutting-edge marine science with inclusive development to build thriving, ocean-based economies.

ReefSystems Foundation

Knai Bang Chatt is a sustainable hospitality brand based in Kep, Cambodia, committed to regenerative tourism and community empowerment. Beyond offering a luxury coastal retreat, KBC channels its platform into initiatives that promote environmental conservation, local culture, and inclusive economic growth. Through its "Kep for Art" initiative, KBC merges art, education, and ecological activism to create lasting social and environmental impact. By partnering with grassroots organizations and foundations, KBC plays a key role in fostering Cambodia’s blue economy while enhancing visitor engagement with meaningful travel experiences.

Stage 1: Successful application Ocean Grant round 1

April, 2025

ReefSystems and local organizations Marine Conservation Cambodia and Knai Bang Chatt joint forces to develop plans to build artificial reef production workshops for 3 fishing communities along the south coast of Cambodia. This collaboration has led to the submission of a project plan at the Ocean Grant Programme. The communities that we aim to help are:

Ou Krasar Community fishery: 154 fishermen households
Phum Tmey Community fishery: 236 fishermen households (from the Cham community, muslim minority in Kep province)
Kampong Samaki Community Fishery: 210 fishermen households

This project aims to involve a total of 300 fisherfolks from these 3 coastal communities in capacity building activities and engage them to restore and maintain healthy marine ecosystems, especially oyster reefs, through continuous training, mentoring and support thus empowering them in the sustainable management of their marine resources. The Community-focused education activities will specifically target the women, children and people with disabilities of the 500 households mentioned above, especially partnering with Kep neighbouring schools regrouping more than 600 school kids and teachers.

In April 2025 we received the news that OCEAN GRANTS has reviewed the proposal and we were allowed to move forward to round 2!

Stage 2: Meet-up MCC, KBC and ReefSystems in Cambodia

May, 2025

Learning about MCC's Anti-Trawling structures

Deploying Anti-Trawling structures

Showing village chiefs plans to set-up workshops for 3 villages for community members to produce artificial reefs