A groundbreaking scientific and conservation expedition is currently underway across Fiji’s expansive ocean territory aboard the research vessel Argo. This marks a defining step in the nation’s commitment to ocean protection and sustainable marine management. The mission will be conducted by National Geographic Pristine Seas team, in partnership with Blue Prosperity Fiji, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, and the Ministry of Fisheries and Forests. The expedition will explore and document Fiji’s deep-sea biodiversity, assess ecosystem health, and fill crucial data gaps to support the country’s pledge to manage 100% of its ocean space and designate 30% as fully protected by 2030. Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Sivendra Michael, emphasized the importance of science-backed marine policy. “This is really grounding the work we do,” Michael said. “Our forefathers had traditional knowledge of conservation, including the value of tabu areas. Now we are using that knowledge in tandem with cutting-edge science to protect our oceans for future generations.” Pristine Seas is deploying a suite of high-tech tools, including environmental DNA sampling, autonomous deep-drop cameras, and the Argonauta a submersible capable of filming marine life thousands of meters below the surface. For the first time in Fiji, this allows for direct, human-occupied exploration of fragile ecosystems in areas previously beyond reach. The research is not only focused on conservation, but on education and equity as well. In partnership with the Ministry of Education, the expedition is co-developing an ocean literacy program to bring marine science into Fijian classrooms and communities. Kevin Chand, Senior Director of Pacific Ocean Policy for Pristine Seas, spoke of the strong collaboration that led to the expedition. “Since meeting at the 2024 Our Oceans Conference, we’ve worked closely with the government, civil society, and local communities to shape this mission. We are thrilled to support Fiji in achieving its 30 by 30 vision.” The expedition builds on recent successful missions to Rotuma and Gau, including the search for the elusive Fiji petrel, a rare seabird. Pacific Regional Director of Blue Prosperity Fiji, Arthur Sokimi, stressed the importance of local leadership in the research process. “It’s a blessing for Fiji to host an expedition of this calibre. But it’s even more important that our young researchers are leading this work from field planning to data analysis. The science must be grounded in the experiences of our own people.” The initiative is further strengthened through cooperation with NGOs such as the Wildlife Conservation Society and others. The data gathered during this expedition will directly feed into Fiji’s marine spatial planning process, which is identifying key zones for protection based on ecological, cultural, and economic value. The results will also be made publicly available for Fijian researchers, policymakers, and educators. The PS concluded, ‘Ocean protection is an investment in the prosperity of the Fijian people. It buffers our shores, sustains fisheries, supports tourism, and secures a blue future for generations to come.’