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6-11, December 2026
We are proud to announce that Reef Futures 2026 will be returning to Iberostar Hotel & Resort in Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico, December 6 - 11, 2026. Reef Futures is the premiere global conference focused solely on the practice and study of coral reef restoration.
The Coral Restoration Consortium is excited to partner once again with Iberostar Group’s Wave of Change as the local host for Reef Futures 2026! The Wave of Change movement is centered around responsible tourism with goals towards elimination of single-use plastics, implementation of nature-based solutions, and responsible seafood consumption.
More information about the venue, registration, programming, volunteer, and sponsorship opportunities coming later this year. We look forward to seeing you in Mexico next year!
About the Symposium
Reef Futures is the only global symposium focused solely on the interventions and actions necessary to allow coral reefs to thrive into the next century.
Reef Futures is hosted by the Coral Restoration Consortium approximately every two years. Reef Futures is a place to listen to one another, share stories, and elevate the practice of coral restoration. Whether you are new to the field, or an experienced professional, this is the place to be if you are passionate about the field of coral reef restoration.
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Call for Content is OPEN! Tell us your story!
Reef Futures abstracts don’t have to come from a scientific publication. We encourage broad submissions from a variety of backgrounds and geographies inside and outside of traditional coral reef science (e.g. engineering, robotics, communications, community engagement, etc.).
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RF26 is soliciting content for the program under five types of content or "tracks." Abstracts for oral presentations, posters, workshops, short videos, and solution stations will be submitted through an online platform.
The deadline for abstract submission of all content types is April 15, 2026
IMPORTANT DATES*
FEBRUARY 15
Martin Colognoli
MARCH 1
Martin Colognoli
APRIL 15
AUGUST 16
CRF
OCTOBER 1
Tom Moore
DECEMBER 6
Reef Futures 2026 kicks-off!
* Dates are subject to change. Updates will be posted here, on CRC social media, and in the Reef Futures newsletter for which you can sign up below.
New for 2026!
Introducing The Solutions Expo
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The Solutions Expo is a significant structural evolution for Reef Futures, designed to bring the entire community together in one large, vibrant space.
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A new showcase focused on directly connecting practitioners to high- and low-tech, hands-on solutions, powered by both community and technology. This is a place where participants can go and share, touch and experience practical solutions hands-on, watch videos, see software demonstrations, and engage directly with the people and methods driving change.
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The Expo will champion the concept of "Innovation for All: Ensuring Equitable, Accessible, and Locally Driven Coral Reef Restoration." This focus will highlight emerging, high-tech tools while prioritizing low-tech, community-based solutions, knowledge exchange, capacity development, and equitable implementation across all regions, especially those with high reef dependence.
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Instead of smaller, separate hands on sessions, the Expo will be held in one big pavilion, running from an afternoon into an evening. This central gathering will provide a unique opportunity for everybody to connect in a different way—part community showcase, part next gen science fair, and part professional trade show.
Reef Futures 2024
VIVA MEXICO!
Reef Futures 2026 will be held from December 6 to 11, 2026 at Iberostar Paraiso Hotel & Resort Complex located in Riviera Maya, Mexico. The Coral Restoration Consortium is excited to partner with Iberostar Group's Wave of Change movement as the local host for Reef Futures 2026!
Iberostar Group: Reef Futures 2026 Local Host
Iberostar Group is committed to leading responsible tourism by integrating sustainability initiatives across its operations. Central to this commitment is Wave of Change, the group's innovation hub dedicated to driving a sustainable ocean economy.
Wave of Change focuses on circular economy, nature-based solutions, climate action, blue foods, and destination stewardship.
The choice of the 2026 venue is influenced by improving affordability and access. With the help of generous sponsors, Reef Futures 2026 aims to increase access by providing a robust scholarship program.
We look forward to seeing you in Mexico this December!
Sponsorship Opportunities
Reef Futures is an opportunity to support the next generation of talent and give back to the Reef Futures community restoring the world’s coral reefs. Visionary sponsors who join us:
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Align their brand with a solution-oriented event bringing together a diversity of people working toward shared conservation goals.
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Affirm their standing as stewards of our oceans and ally of people everywhere who rely on them.
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Connect with diverse leaders, organizations, scientists, policymakers and students who are driving the fight to save coral reefs.
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Receive a tax deduction if your donation is provided to the 501c nonprofit partner.
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