Falkland Islands Government Marine Protected Areas

MRAG Ltd was contracted by the Falkland Islands Government (FIG) to provide Marine Protected Areas Specialist services from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024. The assignment aimed to advance the establishment of Marine Managed Areas (MMAs) in the Falkland Islands, which is a key goal outlined in the Falkland Islands Environment Strategy 2021-2040. 

MRAG’s work involved developing a management framework, supporting legislation, and creating criteria for site selection, based on previous technical proposals, scientific research, consultation feedback, and international best practices. Key tasks included reviewing technical documents and global best practices in marine protection, developing policy options, and assisting the Policy and Legal Directorates in drafting relevant legislation. MRAG also organized stakeholder consultations to gather input and ensure broad support for the MMA initiative. 

Furthermore, MRAG provided advice on marine management and identified indicators and metrics for MMAs, including methods for measurement, baselines, and targets. The final report summarized the methods used, assessed policy options, reviewed current legislation, and proposed new legislative measures, while also outlining a master plan for creating a network of MMAs in the Falkland Islands and defining criteria for site selection.