Progress report for
Achievement at a glance
Monaco Explorations implemented nine missions between 2017 and 2018.
A first phase was conducted until mid-2018 aboard Yersin with investigations of the marine and island fauna and analyses of any disturbances that may affect it. Four missions were carried out successively in Madeira (Portugal), Cabo Verde, the West Indies and Malpelo (Colombia). They involved many scientific partners from the different areas visited which allowed the accomplishment of several research programmes, and the production of scientific papers. In addition, several educational toolkits were produced and distributed in local schools as well as in schools of Monaco.
The scope of the first two missions included studying biodiversity and megafauna, tagging, extracting environmental DNA, and developing a better understanding of the chemical and biological effects of global warming. Researchers studied little known but very rich areas of biodiversity such as seamounts and, finally, there was a focus on the protection of endangered species like sea turtles and monk seals. The two missions were honoured by the visit of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco
The 20-day transit of Yersin from Cabo Verde to Martinique (French West Indies) was devoted to sampling Sargassum. Cetaceans and marine birds were also observed and referenced. The analysis of the data is currently in progress.
At the end of this first phase, it seemed useful to expand the objectives of Monaco Explorations by bringing together scientific research, mediation and political opportunities more closely and by relying on different platforms and a wider range of international partners. In this broader context, five missions were carried out in the second half of 2018 with external partners in Hawaii, Martinique, Norway, Colombia and the Strait of Torres respectively. These missions focused on coral reef research, the protection of marine turtles and leveraging traditional knowledge to help protect the environment.
Beneficiaries
The beneficiaries are researchers, governmental authorities and other local stakeholders as well as the general public and schoolchildren.
Actions
Supporting the production of scientific papers and the participation of researchers in international conferences in relation with the objectives of the different missions. Production and distribution of educational material (booklets, exhibits and videos) in Cabo Verde, Martinique (French West Indies) and Badu Island (Australia).
