Community based project to protect and restore mangrove ecosystems in Hammerhead Shark Sanctuary Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica

In 2010 Mision Tiburon started a research project in Golfo Dulce (South Pacific of Costa Rica), to identify essential habitats for the critically endangered scalloped hammerhead shark, Sphyrna lewini. Based on Mision Tiburon´scientific results in May 2018, the Government of Costa Rica declared the Hammerhead Shark Sanctuary (HSS) Golfo Dulce to protect the wetlands ecosystems used as nursery ground for S. lewini. The HSS represents a new model of governance for Costa Rica, enabling communities in coastal ecosystems protection. Mision Tiburon has strengthened the HSS, engaging stakeholders in shark conservation and empowering local leaders. This project aims to restore the Sanctuary´s mangrove ecosystems used as essential habitats for shark threatened species, while promoting the inclusion in the society of vulnerable groups (women, fishers, youth). This initiative offers a holistic solution to climate change and biodiversity loss, preparing communities to develop capacities for a sustainable use of nature.