Monaco Explorations are preparing a large-scale expedition in the Western Indian Ocean. This expedition will take place between Reunion Island, Mauritius and Seychelles, with a particular focus on Saya de Malha, one of the biggest seagrass beds of the world on the Mascarene Plateau. This area is home to ecosystems that are little known because they are remote and difficult to access. Scientists from different backgrounds, as well as policymakers and media specialist will collaborate and pool their efforts to investigate the area, raise awareness on their value and the pressures they face, and develop guidance, resources and tools to assist Mauritius and Seychelles in the sustainable joint management of their resources.

To warrant that the project implements a multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary approach, including natural and social sciences, in accordance with sustainability science principles, an Advisory Committee composed of fourteen renowned experts from around the world has been established to support and advise Monaco Explorations.

The Committee held its kick off meeting on March 30 to agree on its terms of reference and develop a work plan.

Drawing on their extensive knowledge of the region and their broad expertise, the members of the Committee discussed the contents of a baseline study (inventory of previous expeditions and work, governance issues, scientific issues, communication and outreach issues) which will guide the scope and conduct of the expedition. The preliminary list of items identified by the Committee for further consideration includes oceanography and hydrodynamics, coral reef and seagrass, pelagic ecology, seamounts, fisheries, deep sea ecology, blue economy dimension, social and human sciences, international governance and maritime zones, ocean literacy.