Six Senses Kanuhura, a luxury resort in the Maldives, has launched an unprecedented coral monitoring initiative known as the Kanuhura Coral Census. This program is notable for being the first of its kind implemented by a resort globally, combining cutting-edge technology with marine conservation efforts.

The Kanuhura Coral Census employs advanced 3D imaging and artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor coral reef health across extensive areas, a significant advancement over traditional survey methods that typically assess only small sections of reef. This innovative approach allows for the creation of detailed 3D models that track various metrics, including coral growth, bleaching, mortality, and structural complexity, in near real-time.

One of the key advantages of this technology is its ability to facilitate repeated monitoring of the same reef areas. This continuous assessment builds a comprehensive long-term picture of coral health and changes over time, providing essential data to inform reef protection and restoration strategies as well as climate resilience planning.

The initiative was spearheaded by the resort’s in-house Marine Biologist, James Cordery, in collaboration with coral reef monitoring expert John Stratford from CoralAssist Lab at Newcastle University and University College London. Their partnership aims to establish a framework for how private sector resorts can contribute valuable, research-quality data to support national reef management and enhance environmental reporting.

The Kanuhura Coral Census represents a significant investment in marine conservation technology, positioning Six Senses Kanuhura at the forefront of efforts to protect coral reefs in the Maldives. As coral reefs face increasing threats from climate change and human activity, initiatives like this are crucial for developing effective conservation strategies and ensuring the health of these vital ecosystems.

The resort, which opened in September 2023, is set on three private islands surrounded by pristine waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it an ideal location for such an ambitious project. With its focus on sustainability and conservation, Six Senses Kanuhura is not only enhancing its reputation as a luxury destination but also setting a benchmark for environmental responsibility in the hospitality industry.