The Autonomous Region of the Azores has established the largest marine protected area (MPA) network in the North Atlantic, covering an impressive 287,000 km². With 50% of this area fully protected, the initiative marks a significant step forward in marine conservation, just ahead of the UN Biodiversity Conference (CBD COP16).
The new legislation safeguards 30% of the Azorean sea, setting a precedent aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, where 196 countries have committed to protecting 30% of the world's lands and oceans by 2030. This effort positions the Azores as a leader in marine conservation, advancing the European Union’s Biodiversity Strategy for 2030.
José Manuel Bolieiro, President of the Regional Government of the Azores, emphasized the importance of this decision, stating:
"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."
Located in the heart of the North Atlantic, the Azores is a Portuguese archipelago of nine volcanic islands. The surrounding sea, covering about 1,000,000 km², accounts for 55% of Portugal’s waters and 15% of the European marine area. The diverse ecosystem includes deep-sea coral habitats, hydrothermal vents, and critical habitats for sharks, whales, and other marine life.
The creation of this MPA network aims to safeguard these fragile environments while fostering sustainable use of marine resources. The initiative is expected to benefit both local communities and the global environment, contributing to ocean resilience against climate change.
The legislation was the result of extensive consultation, with the Azorean government conducting over 40 meetings involving stakeholders from the fishing industry, maritime transport, tourism operators, and environmental organizations. This collaborative effort ensured that the MPA network would balance ecological preservation with the needs of the local economy.
The new MPA network features a range of protection levels:
Marine protected areas are essential tools for reversing biodiversity loss and building resilience against climate change. The fully and highly protected areas within the Azores’ MPA network are expected to:
The establishment of this extensive MPA network is part of the Blue Azores Program, a collaborative effort between the Regional Government of the Azores, the Oceano Azul Foundation, the Waitt Institute, and the University of the Azores. The program aims to promote the sustainable use of the Azores' marine resources, enhance natural capital, and create new opportunities for economic development.
