Portugal’s Azores have established Europe’s largest Marine Protected Area (MPA) network, safeguarding 287,000 square kilometers of ocean to protect diverse marine ecosystems. With 15 percent of the waters fully protected and another 15 percent highly protected, activities like fishing and mining are restricted to preserve habitats for whales, dolphins, sharks, and deep-sea corals.
This effort, part of the global 30×30 initiative to protect 30 percent of oceans and land by 2030, demonstrates the Azores’ leadership in marine conservation. Scientific research and collaboration with local communities guided the creation of these MPAs, ensuring they balance ecological preservation with economic needs.
The President of the Regional Government of the Azores, praised the initiative, hoping it inspires other regions to act. By prioritizing biodiversity and climate stability, the Azores’ achievement moves the world closer to sustainable ocean health and a brighter future.