The Togean archipelago is considered the best representative of coral reefs in sheltered environments in Indonesia, with all four coral reef types in close proximity to one another. You'll stay in the field research station right on the water with a walkway to the beach on the island of Malange. You will sleep on straw mats spread out on the hut floors and use simple Indonesian toilets and cold-water showers. Increasing pressures from expanding coastal populations and unsustainable economic activities are threatening the survival of the Togean Island ecosystems. Logging and the expansion of coconut plantations are encroaching on the natural forests, not only depleting the remaining forest land, but also causing siltation of the waterways and coral reefs.
Fishermen are over harvesting shellfish and selling a variety of endangered species.
Tour operators with scuba diving boats are taking visitors to the Togean Islands and using anchors that damage the coral reef. Activities such as these are taking their toll on the natural ecosystems and the residents of this region. In recognition of the realistic threat of unmonitored tourism development, CI also works with the District Tourism agency and the communities to ensure sound planning of conservation areas and tourism zones. As advocates for conservation in the Togean Islands, TEN has taken on the responsibility to educate tourists on how to appreciate the natural resources of the Togeans in a culturally and environmentally sensitive way. CI is also addressing the underlying threats to biodiversity by bringing policy issues to the attention of decision-makers and helping local communities find income generating activities that provide incentives for biodiversity conservation.