Conservation of Rapa Nui waters strongly supported by publications in Aquatic Conservation

Abstract

This paper describes how a series of papers published in Aquatic Conservation have had a clear impact on the conservation process run at Rapa Nui by the Chilean Government and the Rapanui community. Exploratory expeditions set the scientific basis for the creation of Rapa Nui Multiple Use Marine Protected Area. Past conservation initiatives lacked proper participative processes and were strongly resisted by the local communities. Science transfer through capacity building was key for a local transformation towards embracing marine conservation objectives. Publications showed the importance of participation, a good balance between political will and a local wish for protection of the sea, and the incorporation of a local worldview, for a successful conservation process. Strong differences between the socio-ecological systems in mainland Chile and that in Rapa Nui were recognized and helped to build a new conservation strategy for Rapa Nui between the Chilean Government and Rapanui community. International experience exchanges also helped to develop the conservation process in Rapa Nui, and recent ecological studies will help future Marine Protected Area implementation.