Breaking News: French Polynesia Sets Global Example with Largest Marine Protected Area
news">French Polynesia, under the leadership of President Moetai Brotherson, has just announced the creation of the largest protected marine area in the world. This monumental decision aims to inspire other nations as they address the critical issue of ocean conservation, particularly in the face of resource extraction and mining threats facing their Pacific neighbors.
Setting a Global Precedent
The new protected area encompasses French Polynesia’s entire exclusive economic zone (EEZ), spanning approximately 5 million square kilometers—an area larger than Europe. This sanctuary bans seabed exploitation, trawling, and seine fishing to safeguard marine ecosystems.
“We do it because there are other ways to enhance the ocean than to loot it,” Brotherson declared during the UN conference on oceans in Nice (UNOC). The high protection areas cover over 1 million square kilometers, reinforcing the commitment to preserving biodiversity.
The Rahui Tradition
French Polynesia’s cultural heritage plays a pivotal role in this decision. The concept of “rahui” — a temporary ban on an area — has been integral to Polynesian society for over 3,000 years. “We are not just a people of the ocean, we are the ocean,” Brotherson emphasized. “For us, it is unthinkable to be able to ransack this space, this place where we have a part of our cosmogony, our legends, our founding myths.”
Global Impact and Call to Action
The creation of this vast protected area serves as a beacon of hope for ocean conservation efforts worldwide. President Brotherson hopes that French Polynesia’s example will inspire other countries to adopt more sustainable practices. “With a people the size of Montpellier, we manage to do great things,” he proudly stated, challenging larger nations to follow suit.
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Addressing Mining Threats
The initiative comes amid worries over mining projects in the Pacific region. Neighboring Cook Islands are planning to exploit polymetallic nodules within their EEZ, a practice Brotherson believes could have catastrophic implications. “It is the chronicle of an announced disaster,” he warned, hoping for international support in adopting eco-friendly economic models.
Looking Ahead
The significance of the UNOC in Nice underscores the urgent need for global cooperation. Brotherson cautioned major nations: “Do not come to give us lessons, because you have undermined the planet for centuries without worrying about the environment.” He advocates for funding and development aid that fosters green tourism, renewable energy, and other sustainable practices.
significativamente Mehr als nur Reden
Jenseits Grosser Reden, ist Brotherson optimistisch, dass die Konferenz in Nizza einen positiven Einfluss auf die Ozeane haben wird. “Diese Treffen können wir zwar kritisieren, doch sie sind dennoch notwendig, um ehemalige Entscheider und finanzielle Akteure zusammenzubringen und um dem Umweltschutz zu dienen.” Brotherson traeumt davon, dass der Tag komme, an dem Ozeanschutz gelingt, ohne weitere Cops.
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