marine parks

New study shows global sea turtle recovery

An analysis of 299 nesting sites of all seven sea-turtle species found turtle-nest numbers had significantly increased at 95 sites, versus 35 that showed a significant decrease.

The study by an international team of scientists and published today in Science Advances, analysed data taken over an average of 16.2 years, including from waters off Australia, Africa, North and South America, and Asia.

Chile to create one of world's largest marine parks around Easter Island

If the island’s indigenous Rapa Nui people approve the plan after a consultation by the mainland government, fishing will be banned from a 631,368 sq km (243,630 sq miles) area – though still allowed up to 50m out for local fishermen – in an effort to stem illegal fishing.

Joshua S Reichert, lead on environment initiatives at Pew, said: “World famous for its Moai statues, Easter Island will now be known as a global leader in ocean conservation.

“This announcement is an important step toward establishing the world’s first generation of great parks in the sea.”