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Using Earth Observation and AI/ML technologies to support climate change adaptation for sustainable coral reef management and shoreline defence

PI and co-PIs: Meredith Roe (University of Queensland, Australia); Willie Kenneth (Pele Island Environmental Livelihood Solutions Network, Vanuatu); Mitchell Lyons (University of New South Wales, Australia); Gillian Rowan (University of Queensland, Australia); Daniel Harris (University of Queensland, Australia); Kathryn Markey (University of Queensland, Australia); Steven Micklethwaite (University of Queensland, Australia); Glarinda Andre Tanearu (Live and Learn Vanuatu, Vanuatu); Reilly Williamson (University of Queensland, Australia)

Funding amount: $147,510

Project overview: Vanuatu, a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), faces severe climate change impacts, including rising sea levels, coral bleaching, and increased cyclone intensity, threatening infrastructure, biodiversity, and livelihoods. However, the nation lacks high-resolution environmental data needed to implement evidence-based climate adaptation measures. This project aims to fill gaps in geospatial data needed for coral reef restoration and shoreline defence by the community of Pele Island, Vanuatu. By integrating high-resolution drone data, satellite imagery, and field measurements, with Google Earth Engine and ReefCloud, the project will create very-high resolution coral reef maps, and generate hydrodynamic models, to inform coral restoration initiatives and assess erosion and inundation risks. The project is co-developed in partnership with the Pele Island community, ensuring alignment with local priorities and capacity-building efforts. The team aims to empower data-driven community decision-making and to support sustainable coral reef conservation, coastal protection, and future climate adaptation strategies in other SIDS by generating publicly available datasets and tools using a scalable approach.

Oceans & Marine Systems Ecosystems & Biodiversity Earth Observation & Monitoring Computer Vision & Remote Sensing