WWF Statement on the Expansion of Marine Protected Areas in Colombia

In response to President Iván Duque Márquez’s declaration and expansion of new marine protected areas at the United Nations Ocean Conference, WWF-Colombia issued the following statement from Executive Director Sandra Valenzuela:

“Thanks to the leadership of the Colombia government and its partners, including supporters of the Herencia Colombia Project Finance for Permanence (PFP) initiative who last week pledged $245 million to support efforts this like one, more than 17 million hectares of coastal waters are now permanently protected.

“This increased protection not only represents an opportunity for the common management of fisheries among several countries, but also the conservation of migratory species including cetaceans and sea turtles. It sets the stage for the adoption of innovative governance schemes to strengthen research and knowledge of our marine resources and opens new doors to joint efforts to address climate change and foster biodiversity.”