Chile Establishes World's Third-Largest Marine Protected Area

946,571 square kilometres now fully protected around Juan Fernández Archipelago

Chile has dramatically expanded ocean conservation by creating the world's third-largest fully protected marine area, with President Gabriel Boric signing a decree protecting 360,000 square kilometres of water surrounding the Juan Fernández Archipelago. Combined with existing protections, the total fully protected area now spans 946,571 square kilometres.
This achievement means Chile has surpassed 50% protection of its exclusive economic zone, setting a new global standard for ocean conservation. The protected waters will safeguard critical habitat for whales, dolphins, seabirds, seals, octopus, numerous fish species, and other marine life in one of the Pacific's most biodiverse regions.
The Juan Fernández Archipelago, famous as the inspiration for Robinson Crusoe, sits 670 kilometres west of continental Chile and contains unique endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. The waters surrounding these remote islands serve as a crucial migration corridor and breeding ground for multiple marine species, making their protection essential for regional ecosystem health.
Chile's commitment demonstrates how nations can take bold conservation action while potentially benefiting from blue economy opportunities, including sustainable tourism and research partnerships.

Key Facts

• 946,571 square kilometres total protected area (third-largest globally)
• 360,000 square kilometres newly protected around Juan Fernández
• Chile now protects over 50% of its exclusive economic zone
• Juan Fernández Archipelago located 670km west of continental Chile
• Source: Chilean Presidential decree, conservation organisations