Five years ago, the Tristan da Cunha community took an extraordinary step for the planet, creating one of the world’s largest fully protected marine zones. Covering over 687,000 square kilometres, the Tristan da Cunha Marine Protection Zone (MPZ) safeguards the rich biodiversity of our surrounding waters, from vibrant kelp forests and seabird colonies to the deep-sea habitats that few have ever seen.
Where We Began
In 2020, our small island community made a big decision: to protect our ocean for generations to come declaring a vast area around Tristan da Cunha off-limits to harmful activities like bottom trawling. This bold move placed Tristan da Cunha at the forefront of global marine conservation, proving that even the most remote communities can lead the way in protecting the planet. Working alongside partners such as the Tristan Government, the RSPB and Blue Nature Alliance we launched the Atlantic Guardians Project to build a strong and sustainable future for the MPZ through various strands.
What We’ve Achieved
In the five years since its announcement, the Tristan da Cunha MPZ has already made a noticeable impact:
- Thriving Marine Life: Early monitoring shows encouraging signs that our island may be a nursery ground for the endangered Blue Shark.
- Scientific Collaboration: Our partnerships with international research institutions have expanded understanding of deep-sea ecosystems and the role of Tristan’s waters in global biodiversity.
- Sustainable Community: The MPZ has strengthened our identity as environmental stewards, supporting programmes and initiatives that are specially aligned with our values, way of life and remoteness.
- Global Recognition: Tristan da Cunha’s leadership has shown what is possible, offering inspiration to other countries and representing that we can be a global example in marine conservation, proving that remoteness does not have to be an obstacle
What’s Next
As we look to the future, our commitment continues. Over the next five years, with help from external funding, we hope to focus on:
- Long-term Monitoring: Expanding our scientific research to better understand climate impacts, coastal stresses, and ecosystem health.
- Education and Outreach: Engaging further with our young people, community, and global audiences to share the story of Tristan’s ocean and to show that although remote, small communities matter.
- Stronger Resilience: Building the tools and partnerships needed to adapt to changing ocean conditions and challenges, helping to sustain our management efforts for decades to come.
A Shared Achievement
The success of the Tristan da Cunha Marine Protection Zone belongs to everyone in our community, our partners, and all who believe in protecting the blue heart of our planet. Together, we’ve shown that size, remoteness, and limited resources are no barrier to world-leading environmental action.
As we celebrate five years of protection, we look ahead with pride and purpose, continuing to care for the ocean that plays such an important part in our livelihoods and sustains us all.
Posted in: Outreach, Tristan News
