Niue Ocean Conservation Commitments (OCC)
A small island with a big ocean
The Pacific island of Niue is home to only around 1,700 people, but it manages a vast ocean territory more than 1,200 times larger than its landmass. These waters are rich in marine life, coral reefs, whales, tuna, and unique ecosystems. To protect this natural heritage for generations to come, Niue created one of the world’s most ambitious marine conservation areas: the Moana Mahu Marine Protected Area, covering 40% of its Exclusive Economic Zone—over 127,000 km² of ocean.
A groundbreaking funding model
Protecting such a large area requires long-term resources for monitoring, enforcement, research, and community programs. To achieve this, Niue launched the Ocean Conservation Commitments (OCC) program in 2023—the world’s first sponsorship of square kilometers of ocean.
Each OCC represents the protection of 1 km² of ocean for 20 years. For NZD 250 (about US$148), individuals, NGOs, or companies can sponsor a piece of Niue’s ocean and ensure its protection against overfishing, climate threats, and pollution.
Community first
When the program started, Niue’s government made a historic move: it sponsored one OCC for every resident of the island, giving every Niuean a stake in the ocean’s future. This symbolic act shows how deeply ocean health is tied to the community’s identity and survival.
Global recognition
The OCC initiative has already received international praise and won the 2024 Fast Company World Changing Ideas Award (Nature category). It is seen as a model for other Small Island Developing States that want to protect their marine environment while securing sustainable funding.
What you get as a sponsor
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A digital certificate for your sponsored km² of ocean.
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Access to annual reports and impact stories.
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Your name (optional) listed in the public sponsor ledger, showing your commitment.
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The knowledge that your support contributes directly to long-term protection of the Moana Mahu MPA.
How your sponsorship helps
Funds raised through OCC support:
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Patrolling and enforcement against illegal fishing.
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Coral reef and ecosystem monitoring.
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Climate resilience and marine research.
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Community engagement and sustainable fisheries management.
💙 Do you love this cause? This is how you can help!
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Sponsor 1 km² (or more): Become a guardian of Niue’s ocean.
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Spread the word: Share the OCC story with friends, schools, or companies.
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Support small island nations: Choose sustainable seafood and responsible tourism when visiting the Pacific.
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Partner as an organization: Companies can align OCC sponsorship with their sustainability goals.
