Tiếng Việt
In 2024, oceans across the world experienced the fourth global coral bleaching event—one of the most severe and widespread ever recorded. Vast stretches of tropical coral reefs were damaged, leading to major declines in marine biodiversity. The waters of Phu Quoc, Vietnam, were no exception. At times, OnBird’s guides and guests witnessed pale, weakened coral formations and the noticeable decline in marine activity across degraded reef zones.
According to The Global Tipping Points Report released on October 13, scientists have confirmed that Earth has crossed critical climate tipping points—thresholds beyond which changes in weather systems, ecosystems, and oceans start unfolding in ways that are increasingly difficult to reverse. These include the thawing of permafrost, disruptions to global ocean circulation, rising global temperatures, and, notably, the rapid expansion of coral bleaching that has devastated tropical reef ecosystems worldwide.
In the face of this reality, many people are asking the same question: Is there still hope? OnBird Phu Quoc believes there is—and this article will show you why.
MAIN CONTENTS
I. From Climate Tipping Points to Regeneration Starting Points – When Hope Emerges From Small Shifts
Crossing climate temperature thresholds has accelerated ocean warming at an unprecedented pace. Between 2023 and 2025, the world experienced consecutive bleaching events, with 84% of global coral reefs affected.
In Vietnam, bleaching was recorded across multiple coastal regions from the central provinces to the south. In Phu Quoc, the impact was most evident at the Coral Jungle Reef, where more than 90% of once-healthy corals were severely degraded during the peak heatwave from April to early May 2024.
| Learn more: 2024 Coral Bleaching Report in Phu Quoc
Yet tipping points are not solely warnings. The report highlights that alongside negative tipping points, there are also positive tipping points—critical thresholds that, when activated correctly, can trigger large-scale regenerative pathways for the planet.
Some examples include:
- Transitioning to renewable energy such as solar and wind
- Advancements in green technologies, electric vehicles, and energy storage
- Restoration of natural ecosystems—forests, wetlands, and notably, marine environments
Among these, coral reef restoration stands out as one of the most impactful positive tipping points, as the recovery of coral reefs often leads to the revival of entire marine ecosystems
II. OnBird – Taking Action in Phu Quoc for the Future of the Ocean
Responding to global calls for action as coral reefs continue to decline rapidly, OnBird launched the Reef Regeneration Project on October 22, 2025. This initiative represents one of the first efforts in Phu Quoc to integrate tourism, conservation, and ecological restoration—aiming to create meaningful, long-term impact for the ocean.
1. Project Structure
a. Phase 1 – Coral Nursery Garden
Launched in May 2025, Phase 1 forms the foundation of the entire restoration initiative. OnBird established nine nursery tables and prioritized eight reef-building coral species, successfully cultivating thousands of young coral fragments under strict monitoring conditions. This ensures a robust supply of healthy coral fragments ready to rehabilitate degraded reef areas.
| Watch: Coral Nursery Project in Phu Quoc, Vietnam
b. Phase 2 – Coral Transplantation
Beginning on October 22, 2025, OnBird initiated coral transplantation at Coral Jungle Reef across an estimated area of 500 m², distributed among several reef clusters. The project employs both micro-fragmentation and large-scale fragmentation techniques tailored to the biological characteristics of each coral species, allowing fragments to attach securely, adapt, and grow more rapidly.
At the same time, the Onbird team actively manages populations of Drupella snails, a coral-eating predator, to protect newly transplanted fragments and ensure stable, sustainable recovery.
| Watch: OnBird Phu Quoc’s Coral Transplantation Project at the Coral Jungle Reef.
2. Science and Sustainable Technology
The project is carried out in close collaboration with marine scientists based in Phu Quoc, ensuring scientific accuracy and transparency at every stage.
- Nursery tables are designed for repeated use, reducing waste and long-term costs
- Micro-fragmentation significantly accelerates coral growth—from several years down to just a few months
- Every step is planned to safeguard ecological integrity and foster sustainable ecosystem recovery
The goal is not merely to transplant coral fragments, but to create a long-term regenerative pathway for Phu Quoc’s reef ecosystems.
III. Small Contributions, Big Impact: “Book Direct to Regenerate”
OnBird believes that tourism can be part of the solution. When guests book snorkeling experiences directly with OnBird at Coral Jungle Reef, a portion of the revenue is allocated to OnBird’s Coral Regeneration Fund.
This simple act allows every visitor—even those experiencing Phu Quoc just once—to leave a meaningful, positive impact on the ocean and become one of the first to witness the early stages of reef restoration. All contributions are honored on OnBird’s Supporters Wall, as a gesture of appreciation from the ocean to each person who chooses to make a difference.
IV. Creating a Positive Tipping Point Together
Earth may have crossed critical tipping points, but that does not mean hope has disappeared. In Phu Quoc, young coral fragments are growing each day, quietly proving that when humans act in the right direction, nature can regenerate.
OnBird is committed to working alongside the community, researchers, and visitors to continue restoring, protecting, and nurturing ocean life. Join OnBird Phu Quoc—contribute a small part today, so the ocean can thrive again tomorrow.