In an unusual deal that involves four European nations, The Nature Conservancy and a foundation established by Leo DiCaprio, the government of Seychelles will create huge marine protection zones amounting to 15% of its territory.
The deal involves sale of $22 million in debt owed to the UK, France, Belgium and Italy; the four countries are selling the loans to The Nature Conservancy, which in turn will work with Seychelles to establish two main areas where the vast diversity of sea life can be protected. Also in the deal is a $1 million contribution from DiCaprio’s foundation.
The first area, over 50,000 square miles near the main island of Mahe, will have restrictions on fishing, and a ban on intensive methods that catch turtles, dolphins and sharks. The second, around 28,000 square miles, essentially draws a line around the Aldabra islands, about 700 miles south of the capital. The area has been compared for diversity with the Galapagos Islands, and has an estimated population of 100,000 giant tortoises.
The plan includes future additional areas that will give protection to 30% of the territory by 2021.
