Center for Biodiversity Outcomes and Conservation Innovation Lab PhD candidate Paola Sangolquí attended the United Nations Oceans Conference (UNOC) in Nice, France as part of the Galápagos delegation. This conference focused on action-oriented collaborations across countries and sectors, from governments and scientists to NGOs, private companies, and the public.
Throughout the week, Paola participated in four panels where she underscored the importance of incorporating local knowledge into marine conservation, distinguishing between simple participation and meaningful participatory processes. Drawing on the experience of the Hermandad Marine Reserve, she highlighted the successes of community-led conservation initiatives, the essential role of law enforcement in ensuring management effectiveness, and the need for inclusive governance in multiple-use marine reserves, illustrated through the Galápagos governance model. Delving into these topics has also been a core part of her ongoing PhD journey, which explores the intersections of science, policy, and local engagement in marine conservation.
She participated in the following panels:
- Galápagos: Evolving Together for Marine Conservation
- Successful Implementation of Ecuador’s Hermandad Marine Reserve: When All the Pieces of the Puzzle Are in Place
- Marine Reserves of Fishery Interest: A Key Tool for the Sustainable Development of Coastal Communities
- Biodiversity Conservation in the Eastern Tropical Pacific: Science, Surveillance, and Partnerships for Action
During the UNOC, the Galápagos delegation—working in collaboration with the Ecuadorian government—signed a manifesto reaffirming their commitment to support national efforts toward achieving the 30x30 ocean protection target. Led by the Galápagos National Park Directorate and supported by Fundación Jocotoco and the Pew Bertarelli Ocean Legacy, the delegation also celebrated the nomination of the Hermandad Marine Reserve as both a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site. Stretching from the Galápagos Marine Reserve toward Costa Rica’s Cocos Island, Hermandad safeguards one of the most biodiverse marine corridors on the planet.
Paola’s key takeaways from the conference include:
- 19 additional countries ratified the High Seas Treaty during UNOC3. The total number of ratifications now stands at 50, bringing us significantly closer to the 60 needed for it to enter into force.
- New and expanded marine protected areas were announced, advancing the 30x30 goal. Now the challenge remains in the effective management and equitable benefits.
- Eleven governments also pledged to safeguard the coral reefs most likely to survive climate change.
- A total of 37 heads of state endorsed a moratorium on deep-sea mining.
- Canada and Panama are leading efforts to tackle underwater noise pollution, an often underestimated but growing threat to marine life.
- The Eastern Tropical Pacific region, through joint efforts and strong regional partnerships, is sending a clear message: collaboration is not just beneficial but essential to building successful and lasting marine conservation strategies.
Paola underscores that lasting impact comes from actions that are inclusive and grounded not only in the natural sciences, but also in the social and economic realities faced by coastal communities. According to her, ocean literacy, advocacy, education, and genuine community involvement are essential levers for achieving meaningful and enduring change.