ANGARI Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private operating foundation established in 2016 and headquartered in West Palm Beach, FL. The Foundation is dedicated to creating a global community that is interested, knowledgeable, and invested in marine and environmental sciences by directly supporting research initiatives that foster a greater trust and dialogue between scientists and the public. ANGARI Foundation uses innovative technology, film, and other media to raise awareness and strengthen science education. Many of the Foundation’s primary initiatives involve R/V ANGARI, a 65-foot vessel that serves as an exceptional research and education platform. For more information visit the ANGARI Foundation website.
IYOR Activities Plan
Since 2016, ANGARI Foundation has assisted in various coral reef expeditions and promoted coral reef research and health, most specifically through the use of its research vessel R/V ANGARI and the Foundation’s 360/virtual reality film initiatives. To date, and ongoing throughout the International Year of the Reef, the Foundation supports coral reef research efforts by chartering R/V ANGARI to scientists from various organizations, including Perry Institute for Marine Science, Bahamas National Trust, and NOAA’s Coral Conservation Program for coral reef expeditions. These expeditions involve working in both unprotected and protected areas in the United States and Bahamas and consist of surveying coral reef ecosystems, monitoring reef health, counting reef species, and utilizing various other research methods to better understand coral reefs and their habitats.
Furthermore, ANGARI Foundation has created two virtual realty/360 films highlighting coral reefs. The most notable Generation Ocean: Coral Reefs 360 degree film follows NOAA coral reef scientist Dr. Ian Enochs and his research team on a coral reef research expedition in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. This film is a great interactive and educational piece that informs its audience about coral reefs, coral research (both underwater and in laboratories), coral bleaching, ocean acidification, and so much more. Complementary classroom content for Generation Ocean: Coral Reefs 360 degree film is also currently in development.