ABOUT
CICI

MISSION & HISTORY.

The Conflict Islands Conservation Initiative is dedicated to the preservation and sustainable management of the unique ecosystems within the Conflict Islands and the connected waters of the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea. Our mission is to protect biodiversity, promote environmental education, and foster community-driven conservation efforts. We aim to create a sustainable future for the islands by working collaboratively with local communities, researchers, and international partners to ensure that the rich marine and terrestrial life found here can thrive for generations to come. Through education, women's empowerment, community engagement, research, advocacy, and hands-on conservation projects, we strive to make a lasting impact on the health of our planet's ecosystems.

To conduct research and education about the natural environment around the Conflict Islands to further enhance our collective knowledge around its connectedness through migratory marine species to the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea.

The Conflict Islands Conservation Initiative (CICI) was founded in 2017 by a group of passionate conservationists determined to preserve the rich marine biodiversity of the Conflict Islands, located in Papua New Guinea's Coral Sea.

The initiative stemmed from the recognition of the urgent need to protect these pristine marine ecosystems from escalating threats such as overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change. CICI's early years were marked by extensive research and stakeholder engagement to understand the ecological importance of the Conflict Islands and devise effective conservation strategies. The organization works closely with local communities, government agencies, and international conservation organizations to garner support and establish partnerships aimed at achieving common conservation goals.

Over the years, CICI has undertaken numerous conservation projects focused on key species such as manta rays, sea turtles, shark and rays and coral reefs. These projects have involved scientific research, habitat restoration efforts, community outreach initiatives, and capacity-building programs aimed at empowering local communities to actively participate in marine conservation and resource management efforts. Through its dedication and collaborative approach, CICI has achieved notable successes in marine conservation, including the recovery of degraded coral reefs, the protection of critical habitats for endangered species, and the promotion of sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities. As the Conflict Islands Conservation Initiative continues to evolve and expand its reach, its commitment to safeguarding the marine environment of the Conflict Islands remains unwavering, guided by a vision of a healthier and more resilient ocean for future generations.

WHERE WE WORK.

At our core, we are dedicated to fostering sustainable practices that prioritize both ecological preservation and economic stability. This commitment is fueled by the collaborative efforts of our affiliates and partners, who share our passion for conservation. In collaboration with The Coral Islands (TCI), a local PNG company, we are actively engaged in delivering impactful conservation and educational programs within the Conflict Islands. Together, we envision CICI as a nationally recognized leader in conservation efforts. Through strategic alliances with governments, NGOs, local communities, and academic institutions, CICI is working tirelessly to realize our shared vision. By aligning our efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we are dedicated to making a meaningful difference in safeguarding our planet for future generations.

The Conflict Islands are a secluded gem nestled in the heart of the Coral Sea, lying at the southeastern tip of Papua New Guinea about 1,100 kilometers from the northernmost points of the Great Barrier Reef. This breathtaking archipelago is part of the Milne Bay Province, a region known for its rich biodiversity, both above and below the water. Positioned approximately 152 kilometers southeast of the mainland, the islands are a tranquil isolated haven, and refuge for many species both terrestrial and marine. Our location provides a unique vantage point, with the expansive and biodiverse Coral Sea to the south, setting the stage for an unparalleled marine experience.

DONORS & PARTNERS.

Your contributions make significant impact on our projects and help us achieve our conservation goals. Thank you for your support and for being a part our community, we would not be able to continue this important work without your support.

If you would like to become a business sponsor contact us below or support our work, you can download the information here on how to get involved.

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT

P&O Cruises is a major sponsor supporting the Conflict Islands Conservation Initiative (CICI), enabling us to achieve key milestones in our conservation and community development efforts. With P&O's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, we have accomplished the following:

- Trained 17 women in Papua New Guinea to become certified PADI Divers in 2020, equipping them with skills for careers in marine conservation and eco-tourism.
- Upgraded our turtle nursery with high-quality pumps imported from Australia, enhancing the nursery's operational efficiency and ensuring a safer environment for sea turtle hatchlings.
- Installed educational infographic signboards at our turtle nursery, providing visitors with engaging information about turtle conservation and promoting broader environmental awareness.
- Supported our Turtle Monitoring Program for two consecutive seasons, allowing us to monitor and protect vital turtle nesting sites, gather valuable data, and engage local communities in conservation efforts.

P&O Cruises' support has been crucial in helping us advance our mission to protect marine ecosystems and foster sustainable practices in Papua New Guinea. We are grateful for their partnership and look forward to continuing to work together on future projects.

Hope Spots are special places that are critical to the health of the ocean — Earth’s blue heart. Hope Spots are about recognizing, empowering and supporting individuals and communities around the world in their efforts to protect the ocean. Dr. Sylvia Earle introduced the concept in her 2009 TED talk and since then the idea has inspired millions across the planet. While about 12 percent of the land around the world is now under some form of protection (as national parks etc.), less than six percent of the ocean is protected in any way. Hope Spots allow us to plan for the future and look beyond current marine protected areas (MPAs), which are like national parks on land where exploitative uses like fishing and deep sea mining are restricted. Hope Spots are often areas that need new protection, but they can also be existing MPAs where more action is needed. They can be large, they can be small, but they all provide hope due to:

A special abundance or diversity of species, unusual or representative species, habitats or ecosystems
Particular populations of rare, threatened or endemic species
A site with potential to reverse damage from negative human impacts
The presence of natural processes such as major migration corridors or spawning grounds
Significant historical, cultural or spiritual values
Particular economic importance to the community

The idea is that anyone can nominate a site special to him or her—a site that gives HOPE. Collectively, all of these Hope Spots will create a global wave of community support for ocean conservation that leaders and policy makers can’t ignore.