Currently, Tuvalu only has one MPA namely the Funafuti Conservation Area. The Funafuti Conservation Area is a marine conservation area covering 33 square kilometers (12.74 square miles) of reef, lagoon and motu (islets) on the western side of Funafuti atoll in Tuvalu. The marine environment of the conservation area includes reef, lagoon, channel and ocean; and are home to many species of fish, corals, algae and invertebrates. The islets are nesting sites for the green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) and Fualopa hosts a breeding colony of black noddy (Anous minutes). Additionally, there are locally managed marine areas (LMMA) around the outer islands that are managed by Kaupule (Town Council).
The effectiveness and productivity of these protected areas have been seen by the local communities however they are not well documented or studied. Additionally, there is also the issue of lack of proper monitoring, control and surveillance and enforcement at this stage. There are ongoing and proposed plan of actions for the reviewing and evaluation of these protected areas within the Kakeega III - National Strategy for Sustainable Development 2016 to 2020. Furthermore, the government is committed to establishing a network of MPA's to cover 10% of Tuvalu's marine areas as part of Tuvalu commitment to Agenda 2030.
Progress reports
By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience, and take action for their restoration in order to achieve healthy and productive oceans
Type of commitment
- Community or Locally Managed Marine Areas
By 2020, conserve at least 10 per cent of coastal and marine areas, consistent with national and international law and based on the best available scientific information
Type of commitment
- Marine protected area with partial protection
- Multiple use marine protected area
2016
