Marine Conservation Cambodia

Marine Conservation Cambodia (MCC) is a non-profit NGO that has been protecting Cambodia’s ocean since 2008. We were the very first organization to actively work on the ground on marine conservation in Cambodia. For the past years, we have pioneered marine research and conservation in order to save endangered marine life and habitats, first in Koh Rong Archipelago and now in Kep. Since we relocate in 2013, incredible changes have occurred. New marine species coming back regularly, coral thriving, dolphins returning. It’s like witnessing a dying person coming back to life. We have also established long-term relationships with local small-scale fishing communities, which have helped provide MCC with a complete understanding of the most pressing issues that impact both people and the environment. We need more people able to help us in tracking this recovery in cooperation with local communities so we can prove conservation efforts even in damaged areas will bring results. 

By joining MCC team, you will participate in a direct way to the protection and restoration of the ocean, as well as contributing to reports for the national government. From our reef monitoring program, to our seahorse data collection or our dolphin project, volunteers can participate in numerous scientific activities on land and underwater, after completing the right training, provided by our scientific team. They can also join our artificial reef program to deploy structures that will protect Kep’s waters for years. We hope those structures will only be the beginning later to be complemented with fish aggregation devices or wild oyster aquaculture. We’ll definitely need motivated volunteers to help realize this massive project.

As you might have realized, most of our activities happen underwater for which you need a minimum of an Advanced diver certification. If you do not have those certifications yet, you will be at the best place to earn them as we have highly qualified and experienced diving team on the island.

Regarding the island living fees, the price can vary depending on the amount of time you are willing to commit and your experience in marine conservation.

At MCC we are always looking for those dedicated volunteers and interns who truly want to make a difference, we integrate you into our team and continue the work we have been entrusted to carry out involving you and utilising your skills and passion, our goal is conservation and the regeneration of a once beautiful area that is in the beginnings of recovery.

While at Marine Conservation Cambodia our volunteers will learn multiple survey techniques as well as other types of marine conservation practices. We currently teach our volunteers surveying techniques and general knowledge in 10 crucial areas. 

1. Fish Species Identification and Abundance

2. Invertebrate Species Identification and Abundance

3. Substrate Identification and Health 

4. Seagrass Density and Identification 

5. Seahorse Identification, Behavior and Distribution

6. Marine Mammal Monitoring, Abundance, Distribution and Behavior

7. Community Socio-Demographic

8. Marine fisheries resources Management

9. Marine Protected Area Management and Policy

   At the same time, we are providing multiple research possibilities for anybody with relevant experience (or enough time preparation before arrival here) intending to stay for an extensive period. For these potential projects, we are looking for people with initiative, leadership and creativity. If it is something you would be interested in, you would have to design the whole project from A to Z. We would be here to support you and give you advice if needed of course. This is the opportunity to be your own project director, challenge yourself outside the box and be a scientific pioneer in this field.