If there’s one country in the world where it’s Shark Week every week, it must be the Marshall Islands. Majuro, the capital and largest atoll of this Pacific nation (and the Capitals answer for September 16), is home to one of the world’s largest shark sanctuary, established to protect these magnificent creatures from overfishing and exploitation.

The Marshall Islands declared its entire ocean territory, covering about 1,990,530 square kilometres, a shark sanctuary in 2011. This area is larger than the land area of Mexico! Within this sanctuary, it’s illegal to commercially fish, possess, sell, or trade any shark products, creating a safe haven for over 60 species of sharks and rays.

The decision to create this sanctuary stemmed from a commitment to marine conservation; sharks are apex predators crucial for maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems. Their protection helps ensure the balance of marine life, benefiting not only the environment but also the local fishing communities who rely on a sustainable ocean.

Majuro's initiative has inspired other countries, like Palau and the Bahamas, to establish their own shark sanctuaries, fostering a “wave” of conservation across the Pacific. So, while swimming with sharks might be a thrilling adventure, the real excitement in Majuro lies in the ongoing efforts to protect these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Learn more: BBC

Monday, September 15 to Sunday, September 21.

The following are the shortest paths from last week:

Play Forgeous for Sep 22