The purpose was to research methods of improving sustainable fishing and aquaculture of oysters and mussels; however, the bay is home to a major industrial park and port.

Babitonga Bay is located on the north coast of Santa Catarina and covers a total area of 130 square kilometres (50 sq mi).

[2] In 2007 the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio) estimated that over 2,000 families of fisherfolk used the natural resources in the proposed reserve area for their livelihood.

[3] The Bay of Babitonga is also an important harbour and the region holds the state's largest industrial park, which depends on use of the port facilities.

[6] On 18 November 2006 the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA) announced that it was studying creation of the Bay of Babitonga Wildlife Reserve, and that public consultations would be held in local communities.

[3] After the first public hearing a group of politicians and businesspeople raised the alarm, since the proposal threatened planned projects and privatization of large areas of mangroves.

[7] At the 29–30 November 2006 meeting of the National Council of the Environment Sergio Silva of the State of Santa Catarina called for a motion to expand public discussion.