Isla de Lobos Declared a Protected Area

On August 23, 2024, Uruguay took a significant step toward preserving its marine ecosystems. President Luis Lacalle Pou announced the establishment of a new marine protected area (MPA) surrounding Isla de Lobos, located 8.1 kilometers off the coast of the famous Punta del Este. This move is part of the president’s broader commitment to protect 10% of Uruguay’s waters by the end of his term in 2025.

The creation of this MPA is a victory for conservationists and marine life alike. Isla de Lobos, despite its small size of just 43.5 hectares (107 acres), is home to one of South America's largest sea lion colonies. Historically, these sea lions were hunted in large numbers, with nearly half a million killed between 1873 and 1949. However, a hunting ban in 1991 allowed their population to recover. The new protections will further safeguard the sea lions and other vital marine species from the threats of overfishing and other extractive activities.

The significance of this achievement extends beyond Uruguay’s borders. A recent study examining over 50 MPAs in more than 30 countries found that well-protected areas, where harmful activities like fishing and mining are prohibited, yield substantial benefits for both the environment and local industries such as fishing and tourism.

Dr. Andrés C. Milessi, Coordinator at Mar Azul Uruguayo, emphasized the importance of this milestone, saying, “The creation of the Isla de Lobos marine park gives us the opportunity to reflect on the importance of conserving our oceans and ensuring their long-term sustainability. We celebrate this significant achievement and encourage continued efforts to protect our marine ecosystems for future generations.”

Adding to the global perspective, Leonardo DiCaprio, renowned actor and environmental advocate, highlighted Uruguay’s commitment to marine conservation. He praised the initiative, particularly the protection of Isla de Lobos, as a crucial step in preserving the planet's biodiversity. DiCaprio's support underscores the international recognition of Uruguay's efforts.

Uruguay’s journey toward marine conservation has been bolstered by collaborative efforts. Since 2021, National Geographic’s Pristine Seas program has worked closely with Uruguayan scientists, the National Navy, and local partners to conduct scientific research and advocate for the creation of marine reserves. These efforts culminated in the establishment of the Isla de Lobos MPA, yet there is still much work to be done, with less than 1% of Uruguay's marine ecosystems currently under protection.

As Uruguay continues to lead by example, the global community watches closely. Protecting our oceans is not just a local or national issue—it’s a global imperative. The establishment of the Isla de Lobos MPA is a reminder of the power of collective action in preserving the natural world.

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For more in-depth information about the establishment of the Isla de Lobos Marine Protected Area and its significance, check out the original article from National Geographic here.