Monaco Leads Urban Marine Protected Area Initiative, Bolstered by Philanthropic Support
Monaco is at the forefront of establishing and maintaining urban Marine Protected Areas (AMPs), a commitment highlighted by recent conservation efforts and financial backing. Marc Leclerc emphasized the critical need for sustained funding and dedication to effectively safeguard marine species. “Patrons and donors provide us with advanced tools, allowing for more focused and impactful work. This is the key differentiator,” he stated, referencing events like the Blue Economy and finance Forum and initiatives spearheaded by the Prince Albert II Foundation.
The Prince Albert II Foundation plays a pivotal role in funding marine conservation projects, including research and the rehabilitation of endangered species. The upcoming Blue Economy and Finance Forum, scheduled for june 2025, aims to mobilize unprecedented financial resources for ocean conservation. these events are considered essential steps in Monaco’s broader strategy, moving beyond criticism to proactive action, and fostering collective duty.
Recent releases of rehabilitated sea turtles exemplify this commitment. Two turtles, named UNOC and Nicea in honor of the united Nations Conference on the Oceans (UNOC) held in june 2024 in Nice, France, were released into the Mediterranean Sea.The UNOC conference, officially the 3rd UN Conference on the Oceans, focused on accelerating ocean action based on scientific knowledge. Further turtles currently undergoing rehabilitation will also be named before their eventual release. The releases took place in front of captivated children in Nice, as reported by France Bleu.
Monaco’s pioneering approach to AMPs within an urban environment sets a precedent for other coastal cities globally. The country’s relatively small geographic size and concentrated coastal area allow for focused conservation efforts and measurable results. The AMPs protect biodiversity, support sustainable tourism, and contribute to the overall health of the Mediterranean Sea.
