Costa Rica Pioneers Marine Conservation Payments for Hammerhead Shark Protection

Costa Rica launches a new Marine Payment for Ecosystem Services (PSEM) program to reward fishers for protecting critically endangered hammerhead sharks in 2026.

By: AXL Media

Published: May 2, 2026, 6:30 AM EDT

Source: The Tico Times

Economic Incentives for Sustainable Fishing Practices

The proposed Marine Payment for Ecosystem Services (PSEM) program aims to offer financial recognition to commercial fishers who prioritize conservation over incidental catch profits. Under this model, captains of medium-scale and advanced longline vessels would be compensated for the immediate and safe release of hammerhead sharks caught as bycatch. This approach seeks to turn fishers into active conservation partners, providing a tangible economic reason to comply with strict regulations that prohibit the storage, landing, and commercialization of shark products.

Strengthening Legal Frameworks and Transit Prohibitions

The new payment program builds upon existing legal foundations, specifically Decree 43900-MAG-MINAE, which outlawed the retention and trade of hammerhead sharks within Costa Rican waters. Recent reforms have tightened these restrictions to include "transit-free" zones, effectively blocking ports and airports from being used to move shark fins or products destined for international markets. By pairing these rigid legal prohibitions with positive financial reinforcement, the government hopes to dismantle the black market for shark products while supporting the livelihoods of local fishing communities.

Technological Integration and Real Time Monitoring

To ensure the integrity of the PSEM program, authorities are integrating advanced tracking technology onto participating vessels. The use of satellite tracking devices, known as balizas, is being considered to verify that fishing activities occur in authorized zones and to provide real-time data on incidental shark interactions. Beyond conservation oversight, these devices offer a critical safety benefit for the fishers themselves, serving as emergency alert tools during hazardous conditions at sea. This dual-purpose technology is expected to bridge the gap between regulatory enforcement and maritime safety.