Wildlife Conservation Society Receives $2M from Bezos Fund

UPDATE: The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) has just been awarded $2 million by the Bezos Earth Fund to enhance its artificial intelligence solutions aimed at combating urgent environmental challenges. Announced on October 23, 2025, this funding is part of the AI for Climate and Nature Grand Challenge, which supports innovative projects addressing biodiversity loss, climate change, and food insecurity.

WCS is poised to revolutionize coral reef conservation through advanced AI and citizen science. The initiative will focus on identifying and protecting the most climate-resilient reefs globally, ensuring the sustainability of biodiversity and coastal communities while contributing to the global 30×30 conservation goals.

“This award helps us turn AI innovation into real-world conservation impact,” stated Dr. Emily Darling, Director of Coral Reef Conservation at WCS. “With support from the Bezos Earth Fund, we’re advancing foundational AI models for coral reef monitoring, inviting divers and citizen scientists worldwide to join us in mapping and protecting these vital ecosystems.”

The $100 million Bezos Earth Fund initiative, launched in 2024, connects innovators with resources and mentorship from esteemed partners such as AWS, Google.org, and Microsoft Research. “These projects show how AI, when developed responsibly, can reinforce environmental action for a positive planetary impact,” said Dr. Amen Ra Mashariki, Director of AI and Data Strategies at the Bezos Earth Fund.

WCS’s project, in collaboration with MERMAID AI, aims to enhance coral reef monitoring and policy impact across more than 50 countries. “Our goal is to make advanced AI tools accessible to every scientist and diver working to protect coral reefs,” said Kim Fisher, Lead Software Engineer for MERMAID. The initiative will integrate global citizen science apps for divers, building an open-source AI model capable of identifying over 100 coral species and producing real-time maps of climate-resilient reefs.

This groundbreaking project will empower local scientists, communities, and governments with crucial data to protect coral reefs that support fisheries, biodiversity, and climate adaptation. “Our science is already showing that there are coral reefs capable of withstanding extreme climate impacts. WCS is excited to harness cutting-edge technology to identify more of these resilient reefs for targeted management action,” highlighted Dr. Stacy Jupiter, Executive Director of WCS’s Global Marine Program.

The WCS combines its global conservation efforts with the power of its zoos and an aquarium in New York City, influencing wildlife preservation in over 50 countries. Each year, WCS welcomes over 3.5 million visitors to its facilities, inspiring generations to care for nature.

For more information, visit [newsroom.wcs.org](https://newsroom.wcs.org) or follow WCS on Twitter at @WCSNewsroom.

This urgent funding announcement marks a significant step in the fight against climate change and biodiversity loss, showcasing how technology can drive meaningful environmental action. Stay tuned for updates as WCS and its partners embark on this critical mission.