Summary Cozumel, a global tourist hotspot, is home to vibrant coral reefs that are vital to both marine biodiversity and the local economy. However, rapid tourism expansion and human activities threaten its marine ecosystems, including shark populations. Sharkwatch Cozumel is an interdisciplinary initiative that integrates Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) from fishers and divers, field observations, and geospatial tools to document sharks and their habitats. Since 2022, we've recorded over 600 shark sightings, identified nursery areas, and engaged over 7,000 people in marine conservation. Through research, education, and advocacy, we are fostering community awareness, collaborating with authorities, and working to protect sharks and their critical habitats in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. With your support, we can expand our impact, safeguard shark nursery sites, enhance environmental education, and drive local conservation policies. Together, we can ensure a future where Cozumel’s sharks thrive, and its people are active stewards of the ocean. Main Activities Exploration – Discover and document new shark habitats in Cozumel’s coastal and oceanic waters. Conservation – Identify and advocate for the protection of shark nursery sites. Education – Develop environmental education programs that empower local youth and communities. Advocacy – Work with policymakers to integrate human perspectives into shark conservation efforts. Collaboration – Strengthen partnerships with stakeholders, marine conservation groups, and education authorities. Why Support Us? Your contribution directly supports scientific research, environmental education, and community engagement, helping us protect Cozumel’s sharks and marine ecosystems for future generations. Join us in safeguarding the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef—one of the most important marine biodiversity hotspots on Earth! Google drive images: https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/101-RfzE1yIeqm4QEbgNu2nbz1Zyp33Rs

Behind the scenes of our underwater research

A young nurse shark underwater.

Our work was recently on the news reaching an audience of 150,000 people.

Behind the scenes of our fishers interviews.

Help Fund Shark Conservation & Education in Cozumel! Your support fuels science, education, and community engagement to protect sharks in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Here’s how your contribution will be allocated: 40% – Underwater Exploration & Scientific Research • Conduct shark surveys and habitat assessments. • Identify and document critical shark nursery sites. 40% – Education & Community Outreach • Organize hands-on education events for kids & teens to inspire the next generation of ocean stewards. • Host science communication talks & workshops at planetariums, libraries, and museums, connecting communities with marine conservation. • Expand environmental education efforts to tourism stakeholders & visitors, promoting sustainable tourism practices. 15% – Environmental Education Materials • Create a children's book about sharks, fostering ocean awareness from an early age. • Develop an interactive shark memory game to make learning about marine life fun and engaging. Every donation directly impacts shark conservation, education, and local community engagement in Cozumel!

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