The MSC Foundation says its Marine Conservation Centre will be a base for biologists, scientists, students and island visitors alike, and will feature interactive pavilions, a lecture hall, a Bio Lab and a land-based coral nursery.

The new research facility will also provide educational opportunities for visitors on the importance of the marine ecosystem and the critical need to protect coral reefs, and will be the hub for the MSC Foundation's Super Coral Reefs Programme, says the foundation. 

Launched in 2019, the MSC Foundation says its Super Coral Reefs Programme has been driving efforts to help restore coral reefs in the 64-square-mile area around Ocean Cay with coral species that are more resilient to environmental stressors such as rising ocean temperatures. 

The opening of the Marine Conservation Centre represents a significant investment in the future of The Bahamas, reinforcing the nation's leadership in marine conservation and sustainable tourism. This facility will not only advance scientific research in line with the parameters authorised by the Bahamas Department of Environmental Planning and Protection and in alignment with national priorities of the Ministry of Education, Technical and Vocational Training, but also provide invaluable educational opportunities for Bahamian students, researchers and conservationists, adds the foundation. 

Through partnerships with institutions such as the University of The Bahamas, The Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute and the Perry Institute for Marine Science, the MSC Foundation says it is helping to equip the next generation of Bahamian environmental stewards with the knowledge and tools needed to protect the oceans. 

The foundation says the Marine Conservation Centre was officially opened by the Chair of the MSC Foundation Executive Committee and Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of MSC Group, Pierfrancesco Vago, with Diego Aponte, MSC Foundation Board Member and MSC Group President, Rick Sasso, MSC Foundation Ambassador and Chairman MSC Cruises (USA) and MSC Foundation Executive Director, Daniela Picco, together with the Prime Minister of The Bahamas, the Honourable Philip Davis, the Deputy Prime Minister, Honourable Chester Cooper and renowned marine biologist Dr Sylvia Earle. 

Key Cabinet ministers from The Bahamas, local Bimini Council members, other dignitaries and key stakeholders from The Bahamas were also in attendance, together with other MSC Foundation representatives and partners, adds the foundation. 

Vago says, "The opening of our Marine Conservation Centre marks a defining moment in our multigenerational commitment to ocean conservation. It brings to life the MSC Foundation's concrete plans for restoring coral reefs, advancing science and creating training opportunities for Bahamian and international students. With the continued support of the government of The Bahamas and local authorities, our work here is contributing to the circular economy through ecosystem preservation, regeneration and knowledge sharing."

Dr Earle says, "Bravo to MSC and the MSC Foundation for creating the Marine Conservation Centre at Ocean Cay, a treasured Mission Blue Hope Spot. The centre is a place to discover why the ocean matters to everyone, everywhere and to inspire actions that can be taken to restore and care for the vast blue realm that makes possible the existence of life — humankind very much included."

The new facility features a fully equipped bio-lab and The Aquaria, a dedicated land-based coral nursery housing 22 coral tanks to support restoration efforts. It also has a 50-seat lecture hall, providing a space for educational programmes and scientific collaboration, says the MSC Foundation. 

The centre's Welcome Hub and Discovery Pavilion will also offer immersive experiences for visitors, including guided tours, interactive exhibits and hands-on coral restoration activities, fostering a deeper connection to marine conservation, adds the foundation. 

Picco concludes, "This facility will connect marine scientists, educators and the public, annually supporting up to 30 marine science students from four universities. By strengthening partnerships with Bahamian and international experts, engaging the wider community and making a bridge to hundreds of thousands of island visitors, we have laid foundations for lasting ocean stewardship and meaningful conservation efforts."

For more information, visit www.mscfoundation.org. You can also follow MSC Foundation on Facebook, LinkedIn, or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor