Protecting large marine protected areas requires more than designation — it requires effective implementation, collaboration and access to reliable information.
Following the establishment of a marine protected area, Rapa Nui developed a comprehensive five-year integrated management plan. For community leaders, international cooperation and partnerships with organizations and technology providers play a critical role in advancing these goals.
A key challenge is ensuring that protected areas move beyond formal recognition to achieve meaningful conservation outcomes. Effective protection requires co-management approaches that empower communities, authorities and stakeholders to work together as guardians of marine ecosystems.
To support implementation, Rapa Nui managers are using Marine Manager, an innovative technology portal developed by Global Fishing Watch in partnership with Dona Bertarelli Philanthropy. The portal processes large volumes of satellite-based vessel tracking data into an accessible format. It allows managers and community members to visualize human activity at sea, monitor fishing and support surveillance efforts across their vast marine territory.
Explore the challenges and opportunities facing the Rapa Nui Multiple-Use Marine and Coastal Protected Area as the community works to transform conservation commitments into practical, long-term ocean stewardship.
