Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
papahanaumokuakea.gov
Protectedplanet.net

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2010
Size of heritage: 36,207,499 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: -169,854°
Latitude: 25,349°

Summary

Papahānaumokuākea is a vast and isolated linear cluster of small, low lying islands and atolls, with their surrounding ocean, roughly 250 km to the northwest of the main Hawaiian Archipelago and extending over some 1931 km. The area has deep cosmological and traditional significance for living Native Hawaiian culture, as an ancestral environment, as an embodiment of the Hawaiian concept of kinship between people and the natural world, and as the place where it is believed that life originates and to where the spirits return after death. On two of the islands, Nihoa and Makumanamana, there are archaeological remains relating to pre-European settlement and use. Much of the monument is made up of pelagic and deepwater habitats, with notable features such as seamounts and submerged banks, extensive coral reefs and lagoons. It is one of the largest marine protected areas (MPAs) in the world.

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Introduction

Papahānaumokuākea is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the United States, specifically in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. This vast marine area covers approximately 582,578 square miles and is known for its exceptional natural and cultural significance. The site's name is derived from the Hawaiian creation story and pays homage to the deities Papahānaumoku and Wākea.

History

The history of Papahānaumokuākea dates back thousands of years. It has been a sacred place for Native Hawaiians, who have maintained a deep spiritual connection with the land and sea. The area has served as a vital resource for their sustenance, cultural practices, and traditional knowledge.

In 2006, Papahānaumokuākea was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its exceptional biodiversity and unique geological features. It was recognized as a place of global importance, both for its ecological significance and its cultural heritage.

Ecological Significance

Papahānaumokuākea is home to a remarkable array of marine life, including over 7,000 species, a quarter of which are found nowhere else on Earth. The site serves as a critical habitat for endangered species such as the Hawaiian monk seal, green sea turtle, and various seabirds. It also supports the largest remaining population of the endangered Hawaiian goose, or nēnē.

The area's coral reefs are among the healthiest in the world, providing shelter and sustenance for countless marine organisms. The unique geological formations, such as submerged volcanoes and seamounts, contribute to the site's exceptional biodiversity.

Conservation Efforts

Papahānaumokuākea is managed jointly by several organizations, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the State of Hawaii. These entities work together to protect and preserve the site's natural and cultural resources.

Strict regulations are in place to ensure the conservation of Papahānaumokuākea. Access to the area is limited, and activities such as fishing and tourism are strictly regulated. These measures aim to minimize human impact and preserve the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

Current State

Papahānaumokuākea continues to thrive as a globally significant World Heritage site. Ongoing scientific research and monitoring efforts provide valuable insights into the area's ecological processes and help inform conservation strategies.

The site also serves as a living cultural landscape, with Native Hawaiians actively engaged in its management and preservation. Their traditional knowledge and practices contribute to the site's overall well-being and ensure the continuation of their cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Papahānaumokuākea is a UNESCO World Heritage site of immense natural and cultural importance. Its exceptional biodiversity, unique geological features, and deep cultural significance make it a truly remarkable place. Through collaborative conservation efforts and the involvement of local communities, Papahānaumokuākea continues to thrive as a symbol of our shared responsibility to protect and preserve our planet's most precious treasures.