Towards the Development of a Marine Protected Area at the Prince Edward Islands

Abstract

In June 2004, the South African Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Minister van Schalkwyk, announced South Africa’s intention to declare one of the largest Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the world around its sub-Antarctic Prince Edward Islands. This catalyzed a partnership between WWF and the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) to guide the implementation of this commitment. This report is a compilation of the work undertaken by this partnership over three years. The report is designed to inform decision-makers, researchers, and stakeholders about the ecological, legal, and management justifications for creating a Marine Protected Area. It supports policy formulation and conservation planning.