New Regional Governance Body Announced at COP16 to Secure Future of Eastern Tropical Pacific Waters

“The Bezos Earth Fund congratulates the governments of Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Panama on the establishment of a permanent secretariat for the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor (CMAR).

This new governance structure marks a turning point in marine conservation, providing the stability, coordination, and accountability needed to protect one of the most ecologically significant ocean regions on Earth. The secretariat will accelerate progress toward establishing the world’s largest transboundary marine biosphere reserve, which will unite and coordinate management of the region’s marine protected areas (MPAs) to enhance ecosystem resilience. By formalizing regional cooperation, the CMAR secretariat ensures progress toward the 30x30 target, protecting 30% of the ocean by 2030, through enforceable agreements and durable financing mechanisms.

At the Bezos Earth Fund, we know that long-term solutions require partnerships rooted in collaboration and innovation. As a key partner in the Connect to Protect coalition, we are committed to mobilizing resources and technical expertise to support CMAR’s mission. The Earth Fund is proud to support both the creation of a permanent secretariat and the member countries in advancing this biosphere reserve vision. With this permanent framework, we can enhance cross-border enforcement, protect migratory species, and deliver lasting benefits for communities whose livelihoods depend on the health of these waters.

The launch of the CMAR secretariat demonstrates the kind of bold, systems-level change needed to tackle the interconnected nature and climate crises. The Bezos Earth Fund will continue working alongside governments, communities, and organizations to ensure that these conservation efforts create meaningful, lasting impact – benefiting the biodiversity and coastal communities that depend on the Eastern Tropical Pacific for generations to come.”