Description: The UTOPIAN project successfully achieved significant outcomes in mapping the ecological state of the internal reefs of La Réunion Island, despite encountering regulatory constraints. The project focused on three reef complexes — Saint-Pierre, les Colimaçons, and Cap Champagne — and aimed to define their conservation status and explore causal links between environmental pressures and ecological states. While initially planning to assess reefs influenced by the Marine Natural Reserve, entry into sanctuary zones was denied due to regulatory constraints, prompting a shift in focus. Despite this setback, the project pursued two simultaneous actions: filling scientific methodological gaps and developing efficient awareness tools. The ecological assessment identified priority conservation areas, notably highlighting significant pressure from stormwater runoff on the Saint-Pierre reef complex, initiating discussions with the city’s water network services for collaborative solutions. Additionally, the project’s outcomes were presented to relevant organisations, such as the Marine Natural Reserve and the Water Office, generating interest in utilising the CORRAM method within their influence zones. The project also conducted training sessions for students on the CORRAM method and developed educational tools addressing watershed impacts, including a video and exhibition at the Kélonia museum. These efforts led to positive impacts, including the integration of ecological data into management frameworks, the establishment of collaborative platforms with the city of Saint-Pierre’s technical services, the involvement of BEST-ALI students, and the creation of educational tools for public awareness. Key lessons learned include the importance of anticipating regulatory constraints, maintaining financial and administrative rigor, and fostering flexibility and adaptation when faced with unexpected challenges or constraints. Collaboration with stakeholders such as the Marine Natural Reserve of La Réunion, MAREX, and UMR Entropie played a crucial role in the project’s success.
Duration: 13 months
