Ascension Island MPA
Community, Education and Biosecurity Programme
Background
In the remote South Atlantic, the waters and lands of Ascension Island host an extraordinary array of life, from vibrant coral reefs to unique terrestrial species found nowhere else on Earth. The Ascension Marine Protected Area (MPA) safeguards these globally important ecosystems, but they are vulnerable to invasive species and human impacts. This project aims to connect the community with their environment, combining cutting-edge DNA-based monitoring with hands-on education and engagement. By empowering residents, schools, and youth to take an active role in conservation, the programme seeks to protect biodiversity, foster stewardship, and ensure that Ascension’s remarkable natural heritage thrives for generations to come.
About
The project will enable two dedicated posts to be created.
1. An MPA Engagement & Development Officer
They will enact the engagement strategy through school sessions, youth leadership and community events;
2. DNA Biomonitoring/Biosecurity Officer
They will run eDNA and biodiversity surveillance across marine and terrestrial pathways for the Ascension Island MPA and terrestrial National Park.
Outputs of the project will include:
- youth-led projects, outreach and engagement;
- quarterly biosecurity surveys coupled with ongoing monitoring.
Outcomes of the project will include:
- higher eco-literacy and stronger community stewardship
- early detection of potential invasive species with clear advisories and mitigation measures shared with residents, schools and visitors.
Budget
Funding of approx £50,000-200,000 to support the creation of two posts and to support this work in the medium term.
Contributions towards International Targets
Global Biodiversity Framework Targets
The UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) sets global goals to protect biodiversity through its targets, most recently updated as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework in 2022. These targets aim to halt biodiversity loss by 2030 and include goals such as protecting 30% of land and sea areas, restoring 30% of degraded ecosystems, reducing pollution, and ensuring sustainable use of natural resources.
1: Plan and Manage all Areas To Reduce Biodiversity Loss
6: Reduce the Introduction of Invasive Alien Species by 50% and Minimize Their Impact,
11: Restore, Maintain and Enhance Nature’s Contributions to People
20: Strengthen Capacity-Building, Technology Transfer, and Scientific and Technical Cooperation for Biodiversity
Sustainable Development Goals
The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 global goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015 to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030. They cover a wide range of issues, including health, education, gender equality, clean water, climate action, and biodiversity. Each goal has specific targets and indicators to measure progress, encouraging countries to work together toward a more sustainable and equitable future.
Life Below Water
Quality Education
Partners
Ascension Island Marine Protected Area
The Ascension Island Marine Protected Area (MPA) was designated in August 2019. It covers the entirety of Ascension’s 445,000km2 Exclusive Economic Zone at the centre of the Atlantic Ocean. You can read more here
Ascension Island Marine Protected Area safeguards a unique natural ecosystem at the heart of the Atlantic Ocean.
Contact us
UKOTCF registered as a limited company in England and Wales No. 3216892 and a Registered Charity No. 1058483.