Pitcairn’s Environment
About Pitcairn Islands’ Marine Reserve
The Pitcairn Islands Marine Reserve, one of the largest on Earth, was established in March 2015 after years of collaborative efforts. Beginning in 2011, the Pew Environment Group's Global Ocean Legacy project worked with the Pitcairn islanders to create this marine sanctuary. In 2012, a National Geographic expedition assessed the health of the marine environment around the islands, discovering thriving ecosystems and new species.
Covering 324,000 square miles, the reserve safeguards pristine waters and coral reefs. The initiative benefits the local economy by attracting scientific research and tourism. In 2023, Pitcairn unveiled a state-of-the-art marine science base, thanks to the dedicated residents and British government support.
The laboratory serves as a hub for studying humpback whales, green turtles, seabirds, and coral reef ecosystems. Its advanced facilities accommodate visiting scientists and support climate change research.
Pitcairn's commitment to marine conservation earned it the Platinum-level Blue Park Award in 2023, while the "Blue Belt" initiative seeks to protect marine habitats. The journey began in 2011, with a formal marine reserve proposal in 2013, support from the UK government, and the establishment of the Pitcairn Island Marine Reserve in 2015. Now, Pitcairn's marine science base ensures ongoing preservation efforts, protecting precious marine life for future generations.
The Pitcairn Islands Marine Protected Area (MPA) Management Plan sets out ways to ensure effective management of the MPA over the next five years.
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The Pitcairn Islands Marine Protected Area Review April 2022 to March 2023
November 2023
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The Pitcairn Islands Marine protected Area Management Plan 2021 to 2026
October 2021
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The Pitcairn Islands Marine Protected Area Management Plan 2021 to 2026 Non-Technical Summary
October 2021
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Fisheries Management Plan for the Pitcairn Islands Costal Conservation Areas
June 2018
About Pitcairn’s International Dark Sky Sanctuary Mata ki te Rangi -
Eyes To the Sky
Pitcairn Islands, encompassing four islands in a 43.25 km2 area, achieved a significant milestone in March 2019. Known as "Mata ki te Rangi," or "Eyes to the Sky," Pitcairn became the first British Overseas Territory and one of only 15 places worldwide to be designated an International Dark Sky Sanctuary. This recognition is crucial in preserving pristine night skies while reaping the benefits of responsible outdoor lighting.
The Pitcairn Islands group includes Pitcairn, Oeno, Henderson, and Ducie Islands, all surrounded by a vast Marine Protected Area. Pitcairn, located in the South Pacific, stands as one of the world's remotest inhabited islands, with a sub-tropical climate. It's renowned as the settlement chosen by the mutineers of HMAV Bounty in 1790.
Pitcairn's government has taken steps to protect its dark skies, implementing Outdoor Lighting Management Regulations and educating locals in stargazing. The island has initiated astro-tourism ventures to boost its visitor economy, beginning in 2019.
With its unique combination of a Marine Reserve, endemic species, and an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, Pitcairn Islands provide a haven for naturalists, historians, astronomers, and adventurous explorers. This prestigious designation cements Pitcairn's commitment to preserving its untouched, multi-island environment for future generations, making it a beacon in the world of night sky conservation and international astro-tourism.