The Government of Mauritius is committed to preserving the terrestrial and marine environment of the Chagos Archipelago. In this regard, it has decided to establish the Chagos Archipelago Marine Protected Area (CAMPA) which will cover approximately 645,835 km2 and comprise the following four zones based on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) categories for Marine Protected Areas:
(a) Strict Conservation Zone (IUCN Category 1b)
The Strict Conservation Zone, which will cover 23,712 km2 (3.67 per cent of CAMPA), is designated primarily for the conservation of sensitive or special ecosystems, resources or natural features. It is intended to protect the biodiversity of the Great Chagos Bank. The Chagossian community would be allowed to undertake supervised visits to conserve their traditional, spiritual and cultural values.
(b) Conservation Zone (IUCN Category II)
The Conservation Zone is the largest zone covering 612,611 km2 (94.86 per cent of CAMPA). It is designated for the conservation of the area in general and in particular, seamounts and associated ecosystems located in the deeper areas of the Chagos Archipelago, as well as important ecosystems such as coral species, foraging grounds and other living resources including the bird population. Environmentally and culturally compatible spiritual, scientific, educational, recreational and visitor activities would be allowed. Fishing would be permitted under an agreed sustainable quota for artisanal, traditional, ceremonial and subsistence purposes.
(c) Habitat Protection Zone (IUCN Category IV)
Spanning 2,251 km2 (0.35 per cent of CAMPA), the Habitat Protection Zone provides for the conservation of bank areas. A low level of artisanal fishing compatible with nature conservation for the sustenance of the local community would be allowed and controlled. Recreation and appropriate small-scale tourism would also be permitted.
(d) Traditional Zone for Resettlement (IUCN Category V)
Covering 7,261 km2 (1.12 per cent of CAMPA), the Traditional Zone for Resettlement would support the sustainable resettlement of members of the Chagossian community whilst enabling the conservation and protection of important landscapes and seascapes, including important marine species. A low level of artisanal fishing compatible with nature conservation for sustenance of the Chagossian community will be allowed.
By categorising CAMPA into zones with varying levels of protection and use, this zoning framework addresses ecological priorities whilst allowing sustainable resettlement in the Chagos Archipelago. No commercial fishing will be allowed in the entire CAMPA.
A roadmap has also been elaborated for the stewardship and resettlement framework under CAMPA. The roadmap outlines a five-year plan with the following objectives:
(a) establishing an effective institutional and legal framework for CAMPA as a statutory body under the Prime Minister's Office, working in close coordination with the Department for Continental Shelf, Maritime Zones Administration and Exploration
(b) implementing a zoning and management framework consistent with the IUCN classification system;
(c) facilitating phased resettlement in the designated Traditional Zone for Resettlement on Peros Banhos and Salomon Islands;
(d) developing scientific research plans, management plans, operational protocols, and budgetary framework;
(e) promoting sustainable infrastructure and livelihoods through renewable energy, circular waste systems, and eco-friendly housing; and
(f) strengthening scientific monitoring, conservation enforcement, and community participation to safeguard biodiversity.
