The Autonomous Region of the Azores has taken a major step in global marine conservation by establishing the largest network of marine protected areas (MPAs) in the North Atlantic. This groundbreaking legislation designates 30% of the sea surrounding the Azores archipelago, covering an impressive 287,000 square kilometres, with half of the area under full protection, where no extraction of natural resources is permitted. The other half is highly protected, allowing limited activities with strict controls.
This decision comes as countries around the world prepare for the upcoming UN Biodiversity Conference (CBD COP16), and the Azores’ initiative is seen as a critical move towards achieving the global 30×30 target. Under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, 196 nations have committed to protecting 30% of the world’s lands and oceans by 2030 to safeguard the future health of the planet. The Azores’ actions provide a vital boost to the European Union’s Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and contribute significantly to global ocean protection goals.
Marine protected areas are widely recognised as one of the most effective tools to reverse biodiversity loss and combat the effects of climate change on oceans. Currently, less than 3% of the world’s oceans are fully or highly protected, making the Azores’ leadership particularly inspiring. This initiative could serve as a model for other regions and nations seeking to meet their biodiversity commitments.
José Manuel Bolieiro, President of the Regional Government of the Azores, praised the decision, saying, “The Azores has long been known for its unique marine environment, and with this decision, we are ensuring that our seas will continue to thrive. The ocean is at the heart of our identity, vital to us socially, culturally, and economically. By protecting 30% of our seas, we are not only safeguarding nature but also supporting a sustainable blue economy. Our decision, guided by science and collective participation, shows the world what is possible to ensure a healthy future for our oceans and our planet.”
The Azores, an archipelago of nine volcanic islands located in the middle of the North Atlantic, is home to some of the most important and fragile marine ecosystems in the region. The Azorean sea, which spans approximately 1,000,000 square kilometres, represents 55% of Portugal’s waters and 15% of the European Union’s total maritime area. The new network of marine protected areas creates a haven for marine life, including sharks, whales, fish, deep-sea corals, and unique hydrothermal vent ecosystems.
The creation of this MPA network was achieved through a participatory process involving more than 40 meetings with stakeholders from various sectors, including fishing, maritime transport, tourism, and environmental organisations. The resulting network is designed to benefit both nature and the local economy by promoting sustainable fishing practices, boosting biodiversity, and supporting eco-tourism.
Marine protected areas have been shown to restore fish populations, protect endangered species, and increase the resilience of marine ecosystems to climate change and pollution. By safeguarding critical habitats, MPAs help maintain healthy oceans, which are essential for the livelihoods of coastal communities and the long-term sustainability of marine industries.
The Azores’ leadership in marine conservation could set a powerful precedent as nations gear up for crucial biodiversity negotiations in the coming months.
