Compliance Consulting Services in South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands Take Center Stage as Marine Protected Area Expands
A Significant Milestone in Conservation Efforts
A major expansion to the marine protected area (MPA) of the South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands has been announced, marking a crucial step forward in safeguarding the region’s rich biodiversity and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
Background: The South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands Marine Protected Area
Established in 2012, the South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands Marine Protected Area (SGSSI-MPA) is one of the world’s largest MPAs, spanning an area of 1.24 million square kilometers. Despite this progress, concerns remained about the impact of industrial fishing on food availability and the interconnected food web.
The Need for Expansion
The intensification of global warming has only strengthened the case for expanding marine protections in these biodiverse waters. A comprehensive assessment of the SGSSI-MPA was undertaken in 2023 to evaluate whether existing conservation measures provided adequate protection for the millions of marine animals that call this region home.
Our Commitment to Conservation
Our team has long been dedicated to showcasing the beauty and importance of this region through world-renowned storytelling. In partnership with conservation organizations such as Pew Bertarelli Ocean Legacy, Great Blue Ocean coalition, and Blue Nature Alliance, we have worked to highlight the need for a South Atlantic Marine Wildlife Sanctuary in South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands.
The Benefits of Expansion
By expanding upon the existing 284,000 square kilometer fully protected area and safeguarding an additional 400,000 square kilometers within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), the local government can more effectively support the rich biodiverse waters whose impact radiates throughout our ocean. This expanded MPA will:
- Provide safe havens for marine species
- Maintain ecosystem health
- Enhance climate resilience
A Significant Step Forward
The expansion of the MPA is a significant step forward in protecting this unique region. By spreading stories about the importance of this region, we have given our ocean a voice and paved the way for positive change not only for South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands but also for our entire global ocean.
Key Points:
- The expanded MPA will see 36% of the region’s EEZ become a “No-Take Zone” marine protected area
- This will help ensure the stability of krill populations and their entire food web
- The expansion is essential for conserving marine biodiversity, maintaining ecosystem health, and enhancing climate resilience