Portugal has established the largest Marine Protected Area (MPA) network in Europe, covering 287,000 square kilometers of the Azores archipelago’s waters. This move aims to protect the unique underwater ecosystems of the region, including deep-sea corals, whales, dolphins, sharks, manta rays, and fish from damaging activities like fishing. The President of the Regional Government of the Azores, José Manuel Bolieiro, has hailed this achievement as a significant step in leading by example for the protection and management of vital marine resources.
The announcement comes as global leaders gather for the UN Biodiversity Conference, COP16, with a goal of protecting 30% of land and ocean by 2030. Currently, only 8% of the ocean is protected, highlighting the need for further conservation efforts like the establishment of MPAs.
MPAs are essential in improving ocean health by conserving nature, supporting the local economy, and increasing marine biodiversity. Research has shown that well-enforced MPAs can enhance the abundance and diversity of marine life within their boundaries, but challenges like illegal fishing still persist.
The creation of the Azores’ MPA network involved scientific expeditions and the collaboration of government officials, scientists, industry representatives, and local citizens to identify priority areas for protection. This initiative not only benefits local communities by preserving ecological, economic, and cultural values but also contributes to global marine biodiversity and oceanic health.
To achieve the UN’s 30×30 target, more MPAs are needed globally, with estimates suggesting the requirement for 190,000 small MPAs in coastal regions and 300 large MPAs in remote offshore areas by 2030. The EU has already doubled its MPA coverage to over 12% between 2012 and 2021, setting a positive example for other regions to follow suit in conserving marine resources.
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