Chile Sets Benchmark in Ocean Conservation Efforts

Chile has taken a bold step in ocean conservation, positioning itself as a leading figure globally. This comes as the nation’s president signs a decree to establish one of the largest marine reserves worldwide.

The initiative, pushed by environmental scientists and coastal communities, saw President Gabriel Boric sanctioning the preservation of 337,000 square kilometers of ocean surrounding the Juan Fernández archipelago. This region boasts a rich ecosystem, home to diverse species such as whales, seabirds, and the Juan Fernández fur seal, a species previously assumed extinct.

Upon implementation, this new protected space will connect two other marine reserves. The combined expanse of these reserves will reach 899,268 square kilometers, akin to the size of Nigeria.

“We have relied on the sea for generations, sourcing food and livelihoods from it, and drawing our identity from it,” commented Julio Chamorro Solís, the president of the Organización Comunitaria Funcional Mar de Juan Fernández. “By extending our marine protections, we are securing healthy oceans, prosperous fisheries, and the cultural traditions that anchor us to our home for future generations.”

This significant move means that over 50% of Chile’s waters will soon be protected, dramatically surpassing the 30% by 2030 target agreed upon by 190 countries in 2022.

Image Credit: Flavien Saboureau