From Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation website:

Acting President Michel Temer signed on Tuesday (2/8/2016) the decree creating the Wildlife Refuge (RVS) of the Alcatrazes Archipelago, a long-standing environmental claim. The newest federal conservation unit (UC) is on the north coast of São Paulo, in the municipality of São Sebastião. With it, the number of UCs managed by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio) in the country rises to 326.

Environment Minister Sarney Filho said the new protected area meant a major breakthrough, especially in a biome that is little remembered, which is the marine biome. "This is an important step, a sign of new management, that we are fully in line with global concerns about the sea. The creation of this marine unit will be very important, not only for the maintenance of biodiversity, but also to attract tourism, "said the minister.

The ICMBio president, Rômulo Mello, recalled that the creation of the unit is the result of a process of discussion that lasted for 30 years between government, environmentalists and residents of the region. "Now, with the publication of the decree, we are starting another stage of the process that has as its main goal the conservation of nature," said the president.

The Secretary of Biodiversity and Forests of the Ministry of Environment, José Pedro de Oliveira, also cited the long process of fighting for the protection of biodiversity of Alcatrazes and highlighted the government's decision. "The Sanctuary will preserve unique natural environments and remarkable scenic beauty in Brazilian waters, as well as protect the animals that use the area for food, reproduction and shelter," said the secretary. For him, "the decree encourages us to carry forward other important protected areas, vital for the survival of biodiversity."