The Blue Belt is the UK Government's international marine conservation Programme. It has been working closely with UK Overseas Territories, including Tristan da Cunha since 2016 to assist them in creating and maintaining healthy and productive marine ecosystems. The UK Overseas Territories are estimated to be home to up to 90% of known endemic UK biodiversity and host a huge range of unique and endangered species, some of which are found no-where else on earth. The programme's vision is that partner UKOTs are leading global ocean protection, supporting resilient coastal and marine ecosystems, economies and livelihoods, and driving forward innovative solutions to support nature, climate, and people.
Community Review of the Tristan Marine Protection Zone
Report and graphics from Marine Protection Zone Officer Janine Lavarello
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As part of the ongoing management of the Tristan da Cunha Marine Protection Zone (MPZ), a Protected Area Management Effectiveness (PAME) survey was completed in 2025 with members of the Tristan community. The survey provided an opportunity for the community to share their views on how they feel the MPZ is being managed and how well its main goals and objectives are understood. The results were positive, with the majority of participants showing a good understanding of the purpose and objectives of the MPZ. The survey also forms an important part of the Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT-4) assessment, helping to provide a picture of how effectively the MPZ is currently being managed. With the current Marine Management Plan due to come to the end of its five year period at the end of 2026, the findings from the PAME survey will help inform the evaluation and development of the next Marine Management Plan. |
Community involvement is an important part of managing Tristan's marine environment, ensuring that local knowledge and views continue to contribute to the future management of the MPZ.
In 2025, the Tristan da Cunha Government carried out a review of how effectively the Marine Protection Zone is being managed, involving government departments, community members and other stakeholders.
The MPZ scored 70% overall, with key strengths including its legal protection, dedicated management, youth training, research and monitoring, and continued benefits for the local community.
The findings will help guide the review of the Marine Management Plan ahead of its renewal in 2027.
Stamp issue: 10th Anniversary of the Blue Belt Programme |
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| Stamps commemorating the 10th anniversary of the UK's Blue Belt Programme, of which Tristan is part. 9-Sep-2026 |
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Blue Belt celebrates ten years |
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| Tristan's Marine Protection Zone central at London event on World Oceans Day 2026. 11-Jun-2026 |
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The Blue Belt Programme is supported by two world leading organisations - the Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) and the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) on behalf of the UK Government. To find out more information, please visit The Blue Belt Programme - GOV.UK.