Though largely unexplored, Easter Island's waters are known to contain rare biodiversity, nutrient-rich waters, and geological hot spots with exceptional wildlife that thrives in extreme temperatures. More than 142 species found nowhere else on Earth have been identified in this Chilean territory's waters. As Rapa Nui, the ocean is an integral part of our local culture and traditions -- and is a prominent part of our day-to-day life. But these waters are under constant threat from illegal fishing.
Over the past year, through the Rapa Nui Ocean Round Table (Te Mau o Te Vaikava o Rapa Nui), our local organizations have developed a strong ocean protection plan, which we presented to the central government. This proposal includes a very large, fully protected marine park or "rahui" zone complemented by an area where local traditional fishing and other conservation measures would be managed.
If designated, the park would be one of the largest of its kind in the world, safeguarding the island's unique ocean environment and traditional fishing practices.
Chile is spotlighting the importance of ocean protection this year by hosting the "Our Ocean" conference on October 5 and 6. Please sign this petition in advance of the conference to let the Chilean government know that you support the Rapa Nui proposal for a strong marine park in the waters off of Easter Island.
Dear President Bachelet,
Last September, the Municipality of Easter Island and 20 local organizations held the Rapa Nui Ocean Town Hall where it was decided that the waters of the entire province need to be protected from the threat of illegal fishing. Since then, the Rapa Nui Ocean Round Table (Te Mau o Te Vaikava o Rapa Nui) has worked to determine the ideal way to conserve the island’s waters, culminating in a proposal that includes strong ocean protection and management of ancestral shore and pelagic fisheries.
This proposal, which you have received, includes a very large, fully protected marine park or "rahui" zone complemented by an area where local traditional fishing and other conservation measures would be managed. I am writing today to express my support for the Rapa Nui’s proposal, and to encourage you to create this the park by the “Our Ocean” conference this October.
Thank you for your time.
