Why Chagos?

The Chagos archipelago is home to the largest coral atoll in the world, and is the most biodiverse marine ecosystem under UK jurisdiction.

The UK is committed to protecting marine biodiversity, both through its own Marine Access Bill and also through numerous EU and international agreements.

But what is so special about the Chagos Islands and waters? What are the values that deserve recognition and protection?
Creating one of the world’s greatest conservation areas

Located in the centre of the Indian Ocean, the Chagos contain the world’s largest coral atoll and the greatest marine biodiversity in the UK by far.

It also has one of the healthiest reef systems in the cleanest waters in the world, supporting half the total area of good quality reefs in the Indian Ocean.

As a result, the ecosystems of the Chagos have so far proven resilient to climate change and environmental disruptions.

Protect Chagos

Find out more about Chagos and add your name to our petition