Gayatri Reksodihardjo-Lilley, who helped Indonesian communities restore their reefs, has died

Mongabay
Mongabay
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Gayatri Reksodihardjo-Lilley, a key figure in Indonesian reef restoration, passed away on November 13, 2025. Her work transformed coastal communities and marine ecosystems.
Gayatri Reksodihardjo-Lilley, who helped Indonesian communities restore their reefs, has died
A What happened
Gayatri Reksodihardjo-Lilley, a marine biologist and conservationist, passed away on November 13, 2025. She co-founded the LINI Foundation in 2008, focusing on coral reef restoration in Indonesia. Gayatri believed in listening to local communities and empowering them to manage their resources sustainably. Her approach involved training fishers and educators, fostering a sense of ownership over marine conservation. She helped communities transition from harmful fishing practices to sustainable methods, leading to the recovery of local fish populations and coral reefs. Gayatri's influence is evident in the thriving ecosystems and empowered communities she left behind. She is survived by her husband and son.

Key insights

  • 1

    Empowerment through education

    Gayatri trained local communities to manage their marine resources.

  • 2

    Sustainable fishing practices

    She helped transition fishers from harmful methods to sustainable practices.

  • 3

    Community-driven conservation

    Her work emphasized the importance of local involvement in conservation efforts.

Takeaways

Gayatri Reksodihardjo-Lilley's legacy lives on through the thriving reefs and empowered communities she nurtured. Her innovative approach to conservation serves as a model for future efforts.

Topics

Society Sustainability