In recognition of World Mangrove Day, Loloata Island Resort led a coastal rehabilitation activity involving resort guests, local staff and volunteers, highlighting its ongoing commitment to marine conservation, ecological restoration and sustainable tourism.
The event saw the planting of 58 Aegialitis annulata seedlings in polybags and the transplantation of 15 mature specimens along the shoreline between Overwater Suites Rooms 2 and 3. The initiative was guided by the resort’s resident marine biologist, Donnya Gordon and conservation officer, Elijah Haru, who provided guests with hands-on education on mangrove ecology and climate resilience.
The selected planting site was chosen based on ecological suitability, with Aegialitis annulata already present and thriving in the area. According to Donnya Gordon “This species is highly adapted to the site’s salinity levels, rocky substrate and exposure to wave action, giving it a greater likelihood of survival and long-term ecological contribution.”
The activity drew participation from a diverse group of guests, including a mother and her four sons, three young cousins—one of whom expressed aspirations to become a marine biologist—and two Papua New Guinean social media influencers, Patronella Gawi and Dagia Aka. Their presence added a vibrant and engaging dynamic to the event, which was marked by an atmosphere of collaboration, curiosity and shared environmental purpose.
Guests received an introduction to the critical role of mangroves in maintaining coastal health, including their function as nurseries for juvenile marine organisms, natural carbon sinks and buffers against coastal erosion. Special emphasis was placed on Rhizophora stylosa, a dominant front-zone mangrove species with extensive ecological value in the region.
The activity was part of a broader programme initiated by Loloata Island Resort in collaboration with the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA), local community members and students from the International Education Agency (IEA). The programme aligns with the resort’s long-term sustainability strategy, which includes regular coral planting, reef monitoring and educational outreach.
“Loloata is situated in an area increasingly impacted by development pressures and consistent plastic pollution ,” said Elijah Haru. “It is essential that we not only protect the remaining natural habitats, but also take proactive steps to rehabilitate degraded areas. Our initiatives aim to do just that—while also involving the next generation in environmental stewardship.”
The resort maintains a robust monitoring system for all conservation activities, including daily observations and data collection by the environmental team to assess survival rates and inform future restoration efforts. These efforts are critical to strengthening the resort’s coastal resilience and supporting the biodiversity of surrounding marine ecosystems.
Looking ahead, Loloata Island Resort intends to expand its guest engagement in conservation programmes. “We believe experiential education is a powerful tool,” said Donnya Haru. “When guests participate directly in planting mangroves or restoring coral reefs, they leave with a deeper appreciation of their role in protecting the planet.”
The event underscored Loloata’s position as a leader in conservation-oriented hospitality in Papua New Guinea, and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding coastal ecosystems through science-based restoration, public awareness and inclusive participation.
