HOPE Reef
Coral reefs support 25% of all ocean species yet cover less than 1% of the ocean floor. They are essential not only for marine life but for people too, protecting coastlines, sustaining communities, and functioning as the ocean’s equivalent of rainforests for their extraordinary biodiversity.
But they’re in crisis. Over 80% of the world’s reefs have already been affected by bleaching, and half have disappeared in just three decades. Time is running out, but there is hope.
Hope Reef, the world’s largest coral restoration project, sits off the coast of Indonesia. Using innovative “Reef Stars”, steel structures that coral fragments are attached to, the reef is regrowing at remarkable speed. Since its launch in 2021, coral cover has surged from 2% to over 82%, and fish populations have risen by 300%.
Before restoration began in 2019, this seafloor was silent, smothered in shifting grey rubble. Today, it bursts with colour and life.
I was commissioned by Mars Sustainable Solutions and Ocean Culture Life to document the extraordinary innovation behind Hope Reef, from the restoration work to the people driving it forward. I was also asked to photograph NASA astronaut Nicole Stott as she experienced this thriving reef firsthand, a place she once viewed from space.
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Testimonial
Ellie Moore, Global Communication & Engagement Manager | Mars Sustainable Solutions
"Our partnership with Francesca Page throughout 2025 has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her multifaceted talents of creativity, spanning photography, painting, presenting, and even painting underwater, has brought a fresh and captivating perspective to the Mars coral reef restoration programme. Francesca’s work beautifully reveals the magic of HOPE Reef, capturing its story with authenticity both above and below the surface.
Her professionalism, sensitivity, and deep respect for the local community and coral ecosystems shine through in every piece she creates. Francesca collaborates with grace and ease, ensuring that her art not only inspires but genuinely honours the people and environments she works with.
Francesca is a uniquely gifted and conscientious artist whose contribution to Mars Sustainable Solutions has left a lasting impact. She is an extraordinary creative partner and a true asset to any project."
For inquiries on past, present and future work, potential collaborations, commissions and other info feel free to reach out at francescapagephoto@gmail.com
