Celebrating 25 Years of Action for Biodiversity

Between 2009 and 2014, the number of operational protected areas increased from three to 26, of which nine are terrestrial and 17 marine and coastal, exceeding 10 per cent of total area [ ] 72 Species conservation programme in Cabo Verde Although biodiversity still remains under strong anthropogenic pressure in Cabo Verde, mitigation measures have been implemented over the years within various conservation programmes and projects. Pressures on the marine animal diversity of endangered species has been mitigat- ed by several actions undertaken by public institutions and NGOs. Regarding the Cabo Verde shear- water, actions have been concentrated in Ilhéu Raso islet, home to about 75 per cent of the species population. The country has benefited from the support of national institutions and international NGOs such as WWF, RMCP, the International Foundation of Banc d’Arguin (FIBA), and the Portuguese Society for the Study of Birds (SPEA). The national NGO, Biosphere I, led a shearwater protec- tion campaign on Ilhéu Raso islet, with the support from the military, which averted the killing of young birds. It is thought that the popula- tion of shearwater is finally recov- ering, estimated in 2013, at 7,000 breeding pairs. The national environmental authority, national research and development institutions and many NGOs have continued with specif- ic programmes to protect certain species such as the common tur- tle (Careta careta), the shearwater (Calonetris edwardsi), marine mammals and sharks, especially the hammerhead shark (Sphyrna spp.), white shark (Carcharodon carchari- as), and the whale shark (Rhincodon typus). These are measures aimed at alleviating the cultural pressure on marine biodiversity at all levels. The protection of sea turtles and shear- water, among others, is ensured not only by protecting the species against hunting, but also by protecting their habitats and ecological niches. There are also programmes to increase the levels of specific, genetic and ecological biodiversity. Given the major achievements in the conserva- tion of these species, exemplified by the common turtle, and the level of environmental awareness and popula- tion involvement, these programmes should continue to receive the full attention of national authorities and the international community. While the capture of sea turtles on beaches and in the sea still poses a threat to the conservation of the species, the situation has improved substantially in recent years, with a strong contri- bution from the inspection operations and awareness campaigns developed by NGOs, community associations, local authorities and DNA. Responsiveness to the pressures is strengthened by legislation and conservation groups, with some conservation plans already approved for corals, marine mammals, seabirds and sharks, in an effort to involve all potential national and international partnerships. C abo Verde is an oceanic island situated in the Atlantic, off the coast of West Africa, facing the Sahara desert. The island is characterized by a dry tropical climate. The territory is isolated from permanent continental influences, and possesses a relatively rich biodiversity, typical of tropical regions, but with a relatively low number of species. The natural and cultural conditions, such as tourism and population growth, highlight the increasing importance of biodiversity conservation in the country. As well as its ecological importance, biodiversity supports all economic activities, particularly agriculture, forestry and livestock; fishing; seaside and beach tourism; water, recreational and leisure sports; and ecotourism. Baia das Gata,Calhau, Cabo Verde Rainer Strehl on Unsplash Cabo Verde