Developing a resilient and effectively managed network of Marine Protected Areas in the Lesser Sunda Ecoregion

General

The project supported the development of a network of marine protected areas (MPAs), improved land-use planning on the part of the Indonesian provincial and district governments and effective fisheries management. The objective preserved ecosystems along the coastlines of the Lesser Sunda Islands in Indonesia, already threatened by overfishing, pollution, non-sustainable coastal zone development and climate change. The project took stock of the condition of the marine protected area in the Savu Sea, set up monitoring systems, conducted studies into various fishing methods and the resulting by-catch and question relevant actors about the MPA. It also trained decision-makers and other actors on how best to exploit this new data and information. In order to promote sustainable fisheries, the project advised on creating stronger market incentives and formulating appropriate strategies and regulations. This also contributed to food security in the region.