Voluntary Marine Conservation Areas at Le Morne

In late 2024, CGC received all necessary approvals to establish four VMCAs in the Le Morne lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, cultural heritage, and ecological significance. This pioneering conservation initiative aims to protect seagrass meadows and coral reefs, minimise harmful human activities, promote marine biodiversity conservation and sustainable fishing practices, and raise awareness among local communities about the importance of marine ecosystems. Supported by key stakeholders—including the Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, the Le Morne Heritage Trust Fund, and the National Coast Guard—the project aligns with national conservation priorities and fosters community participation. Local fishers and community members will actively engage in management efforts, ensuring long-term success through ownership and collaboration. CGC’s team will conduct baseline research and implement robust monitoring protocols to measure both ecological and socio-economic outcomes, guiding adaptive management strategies and creating a replicable framework for future conservation initiatives across Mauritius. With the necessary clearances secured, CGC will execute the project in key phases, including marine demarcation buoy installations, ecological surveys, long-term biodiversity monitoring, and stakeholder engagement. Additionally, CGC will collaborate with government authorities to integrate VMCA conservation strategies into national marine spatial planning frameworks. Seeking financial support from corporate sustainability programs, and international conservation grants, the project aspires to restore marine biodiversity, enhance sustainable fisheries management, and promote community-led conservation. By protecting these critical marine ecosystems, the initiative will contribute to Mauritius’ climate resilience, sustainable fisheries, and eco-tourism development, benefiting both local fishers and tourism operators while aligning with international marine conservation goals such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Life Below Water. Through a scientifically managed marine conservation network, CGC is committed to balancing environmental conservation with sustainable development, securing benefits for both nature and the communities that rely on it, and ensuring the long-term resilience of Le Morne’s marine ecosystems.