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Costa Rica has made a major announcement regarding the expansion of its protected ocean areas. With the goal of protecting nearly a third of the world’s land and sea, Costa Rica has exceeded expectations by expanding its protected marine areas from 2.7 percent to more than 30 percent of its territorial waters, nine years ahead of the global deadline.
The expansion includes the Cocos Island National Park and its surrounding marine protected area, which will now cover over 5 million hectares. Additionally, the nearby Bicentennial Marine Management Area has expanded to roughly the size of Iceland.
Conservation International, in collaboration with the Costa Rican government and local partners, played a crucial role in completing the necessary environmental surveys and technical work to make this expansion possible. This expansion will have a profound environmental impact, benefiting both livelihoods and nature.
The Bicentennial Marine Management Area will balance sustainable production and protection by allowing regulated commercial fishing in certain areas while restricting human activities in a “no-take zone” to protect endangered marine species, such as sharks.
This expansion contributes significantly to the global goal of protecting 30 percent of the world’s oceans by 2030, which is crucial for mitigating climate change and preventing marine species extinctions. Costa Rica’s efforts serve as a model for other nations to follow in creating marine protected areas and moving closer to achieving the 30×30 goal.
The Cocos Island National Park expansion is part of the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor, connecting protected ocean areas from Costa Rica and neighboring nations to create a safe passage for marine species like turtles and whales.
Costa Rica’s leadership in conservation continues to set an example for other nations. The expansion of the Cocos Island National Park is a strong foundation on which to continue efforts to support biodiversity and protect marine species.
Cover image: A school of fish, Cocos Island, Costa Rica (© Sterling Zumbrunn)
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Emily Carter, a seasoned sailor and marine journalist from Vancouver, has a deep-seated passion for the ocean that has shaped her career. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of British Columbia, Emily has become known for her captivating and detailed storytelling. Her work vividly portrays the excitement of sailing and the distinct maritime culture of Canada, earning her a respected place in the sailing community. When not writing, Emily enjoys navigating the rugged coastlines of British Columbia and participating in local regattas, always eager to embark on her next maritime adventure.
