Caribbean Reef Buddy

Caribbean Reef Buddy is a marine conservation organization dedicated to protecting and restoring coral reef ecosystems through scientific research, education, and community engagement. Based on the Caribbean island of Carriacou, part of Grenada's tri-island state, the organization operates using a comprehensive Trinity Model focusing on research, development, and transformation of conservation practices. The organization partners with Deefer Diving from May to September to provide hands-on marine ecology experiences for students, divers, and local communities. Their programs include Research Buddy and Assistant programs designed to inspire future marine conservation leaders. Caribbean Reef Buddy has supported over 250 academic projects and welcomed 17 volunteers, conducting research using established protocols to understand reef community changes around Carriacou and the Southern Cays. Their mission extends beyond research to include publishing peer-reviewed papers with academic partners, collaborating with local policymakers to create sustainable conservation solutions, and providing elementary education and community outreach. The organization focuses particularly on coastal resilience in Carriacou, working to identify drivers that endanger coastal ecosystems while building resilient community-based conservation support throughout the region.