The Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal, has passed legislation to establish the largest marine protected area (MPA) network in the North Atlantic.
It noted that the move safeguards 30% of the surrounding sea, covering 287,000 square kilometres, with half of that area fully protected from any natural resource extraction.
The other half is designated as ‘highly protected’, marking a substantial advancement in global marine conservation efforts.
The move aligns with the objectives set during the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which saw countries commit to protecting 30% of the world’s lands and oceans by 2030.
‘A productive, vibrant ocean’
“The Azores has long been known for its unique ocean nature, and with this decision, we are driving the way forward to a productive, vibrant ocean,” commented José Manuel Bolieiro, president of the regional government of the Azores.
“The sea is an integral part of our collective identity, being vital socially, culturally and economically. We are committed to protect and recover our ocean to support a healthy blue economy. Our decision through a science-based and participatory process leading to the protection of 30% of our seas serves as an example that other regions must follow now to ensure the future health of the planet.”
The Azores is a Portuguese archipelago of nine volcanic islands in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean. The Azorean sea, an area of approximately 1,000,000 square kilometres represents 55% of Portuguese waters and around 15% of the European waters. Its ecosystem is a habitat for sharks, whales, deep-sea corals and other species.
Establishing the MPA network
The creation of this MPA network followed collaboration between the Azorean government and stakeholders from various sectors, including fishing, maritime transport, tourism, and environmental organisations.
‘The result was the collaborative design of a network of marine protected areas that benefits people, nature, and the economy, based on the best available science in the region,’ Blue Azores said in a press release.
A marine protected area is an area in the ocean aimed at nature conservation where limits are placed limits on human activity. Science shows that fully and highly protected MPAs derive the most benefits, both for nature and for people. Read more here.
