Located in the heart of the Caribbean region, the Dominican Republic is an extraordinary biodiversity hotspot. Home to many species of cetaceans and to thriving coral reefs, the country has recently shown its will to better study and protect its marine resources.

In 2024, I had the opportunity to travel to the Dominican Republic to document the creation of a new Marine Protected Area around the Beata Ridge in the south, and the extension of a marine mammal sanctuary in the north. Alongside scientific and political partners, I witnessed the power of hope for the protection of marine life, and for an entire country.