An Ascension Island Marine Sustainability (AIMS) project commenced in 2014, following the receipt of funding from the Darwin Initiative. The purpose of the project is to increase the marine biodiversity knowledge and fisheries science capacity of Ascension. This will allow the development of a Biodiversity Action Plan for marine species, in addition to providing the science base required for sustainably managing both inshore and offshore fisheries. The project will continue until 2016 and additional information can be found here. In addition, public meetings with local fishermen have allowed them to express their opinions concerning marine management. 2015 will subsequently be an exciting year for Ascension in terms of determining how to proceed with the best course of action for the Island’s marine environment.