On Wednesday, 12th August 2026 and the Kiribati Marine Spatial Planning Coordinating Committee had an informative meeting with Pristine Seas representatives to discuss the Marine Scientific Research expedition plan in the Phoenix Islands. 

Mr. Ryan Jenkinson, Director of Expeditions and Mr. Kevin Chand, Senior Director of Pacific Ocean policy for Pristine Seas discussed their plans to conduct an expedition to the Phoenix Islands in 2027 to collect biodiversity data that will contribute to the national Marine Spatial Planning process. In addition to the scientific research, the Expedition will also include a media component that will result in a documentary film featuring the Expedition and Kiribati’s ocean policy and marine spatial planning journey, including important cultural connections.  

Part of the discussion included locals that will be joining this expedition and the requirements as part of the crew for this expedition. Only 3 locals will be able to join the expedition, and these individuals must have the basic expertise and technical experience in data collection underwater, on the surface of the sea and on the coast. The committee agreed based on the requirements and data needed by the committee to support further steps for Marine Spatial Planning process in Kiribati that the 3 representatives will be from: 

- 1 from Research and Monitoring Unit for Coastal Fisheries Division for Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources 

- 1 from Environment Conservation Division for Ministry of Environment, Land and Agricultural Development 

- 1 from Kiribati Meteorological Services for Office of Te Beretitenti 

The committee also agreed that the expedition will be carried out tentatively from February until early March in 2027. 

We acknowledge and appreciate Pristine Seas, MFAT and the members of the committee for their ongoing supports towards a well-informed decision-making process for a better Marine Spatial Planning process in Kiribati.