Supporting Palau’s vision for sustainable ocean economies
Palau’s ocean has sustained communities for generations, providing food, livelihoods, cultural connections and economic opportunities. As a global leader in ocean conservation, Palau is working to ensure its marine resources are managed in ways that protect biodiversity while creating lasting benefits for its people.
Through the Palau National Marine Sanctuary, Palau protects 80% of its exclusive economic zone while supporting sustainable use within its Domestic Fishing Zone. This approach reflects Palau’s commitment to protecting critical marine ecosystems while exploring opportunities for locally led, sustainable fisheries.
Conservation International supports Palau’s vision by providing science, technical expertise and partnerships to help strengthen sustainable fisheries management, improve understanding of economic opportunities and support a thriving blue economy.
Creating benefits for Palauan communities
A sustainable blue economy is about ensuring that ocean resources support current needs and continue to support people for generations to come.
Conservation International supports approaches that aim to:
- strengthen opportunities for Palauan participation in fisheries;
- increase access to locally caught seafood;
- support sustainable livelihoods and employment;
- improve fisheries management and reduce impacts on marine ecosystems; and
- ensure decisions are guided by the best available science.
By supporting locally led solutions, Palau has the opportunity to demonstrate how ocean conservation and sustainable economic development can work together.
Strengthening sustainable tuna fisheries
Tuna fisheries are an important part of Palau’s marine economy and regional identity. As Palau works to develop a stronger domestic fisheries sector, ensuring that fishing activities are environmentally sustainable and deliver benefits for Palauan communities is essential.
Conservation International works with government and partners to support science-based approaches that help assess fisheries opportunities, strengthen management approaches and identify pathways for sustainable growth.
This includes supporting analysis of offshore fisheries opportunities, market access, local capacity development and approaches that balance economic benefits with biodiversity protection.
Science supporting ocean decision-making
Effective ocean management requires understanding both ecological and economic realities. Conservation International works alongside Palauan partners to provide research and analysis that can inform decisions about fisheries, marine planning and sustainable use.
Through partnerships and support from organisations including the Blue Nature Alliance, CI contributes scientific and technical expertise to help Palau evaluate fisheries opportunities, strengthen sustainable management and advance its vision for a resilient blue economy.
Palau’s future depends on a healthy ocean. By combining conservation, science and sustainable economic opportunities, Palau is showing how island nations can protect nature while supporting the wellbeing of their communities.