Pew in the Pacific

A collection of Pew resources highlights a range of ocean conservation issues

Three fishermen wait patiently for fish off the coast of Majuro in the Marshall Islands.
Shawn Heinrichs for the Pew Charitable Trusts

The 43 million people who call the Pacific islands home steward some of the world’s largest conservation initiatives and most valuable fisheries. These islands offer some of the best examples of how people and nature can both benefit from locally driven, science-based marine protections.

For more than a decade, Pew has supported conservation initiatives across the Pacific islands—from Aotearoa to Hawaii to Palau to Rapa Nui—in collaboration with local partners, governments, communities, scientists, and Indigenous peoples to effectively safeguard biodiversity. These efforts, some of which are ongoing, include establishing marine protections, conducting research, managing fisheries, and providing technical support for international negotiations.

This collection of Pew resources highlights a range of ocean conservation issues and the community-led efforts to help ensure the region’s people and wildlife can continue to reap the benefits of a thriving, sustainable marine environment for generations to come.

Eduardo Sorensen
Eduardo Sorensen
Fact Sheet

Vaikava Rapa Nui

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Fact Sheet

Easter Island, a territory of Chile that lies some 4,000 kilometers (2,485 miles) west of that country’s coast, is world famous for its Moai statues, which are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Trust Magazine

Successful Shark Conservation in the Pacific

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Trust Magazine

A decade of protection changed a species’ image from villain to vulnerable.

Palau
Palau
Article

Shark Sanctuaries and the Conservation Movement

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Article

Ten years ago, sharks had few protections and little management in the face of threats—including targeted fishing to incidental catch—everywhere they traveled. But in 2009, Palau designated the world’s first shark sanctuary, starting a wave of conservation that has since grown to 17 sanctuaries.

Easter Island Marine Protected Area
Easter Island Marine Protected Area
Article

Easter Island Has a New Marine Protected Area

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Article

The near-pristine waters surrounding the Chilean territory of Easter Island, which host a vibrant array of sea life and support a centuries-old local culture, will be home to the world’s newest large marine protected area (MPA). At the International Marine Protected Areas Congress in Valpairaso, Chile, Chilean President Michelle Bachelet announced that her government will designate the Rapa Nui (Easter Island) Rahui MPA, a decision that was supported by the residents of Easter Island by a wide margin in a referendum just before the start of the 4th International Marine Protected Areas Congress.

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