Fátima Vázquez

Chilean marine biologist leading coastal conservation in the Pacific Ocean

Fátima Vázquez is a Chilean marine biologist whose pioneering work in marine conservation has safeguarded critical ecosystems along Chile's 6,435 km coastline. As director of the Ocean Guardians Foundation, she pioneered the Marine Safeguards Initiative, establishing 12 new marine protected areas since 2021 that cover 20% of Chile's Exclusive Economic Zone.

Her groundbreaking research on Humboldt squid migration patterns revealed critical breeding zones previously unknown to science. This led to the 2023 creation of the Humboldt Marine Reserve, protecting over 120 endangered species. Vázquez's satellite tagging projects have tracked migratory routes of blue whales, informing international conservation agreements.

In 2022, she co-founded the Pacific Fisheries Innovation Network, developing sustainable aquaculture methods that reduced overfishing by 35% in partner communities. Her "Blue Horizons" documentary series on National Geographic has educated millions about Chile's marine biodiversity.

Notable achievements include stopping a controversial offshore mining project in 2024 through scientific evidence, and establishing Chile's first Marine Science Hub in Valparaíso. Her partnership with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals program has expanded her conservation models to Peru and Ecuador. Fátima Vázquez was named one of Time's 100 Most Influential People in 2024 for her "ocean stewardship that redefines sustainability".