“Azores Approve North Atlantic’s Largest Marine Protected Area: A Win for Biodiversity and Conservation”

The regional assembly of the Azores Islands, a nine-island archipelago in Portugal, has recently approved the creation of the North Atlantic’s largest marine protected area. This decision aligns with the United Nations goal of safeguarding 30 percent of the planet’s land and sea by the end of the decade.

Covering nearly 115,830 square miles, the new marine sanctuary will provide protection for a wide range of biodiversity, including deep-sea corals and hydrothermal vents. Half of the area will be designated as “fully protected,” meaning no fishing activities will be permitted, while the other half will be classified as “highly protected,” allowing for selected fishing.

The approval of this marine protected area comes after a collaborative effort involving scientists, NGOs, public bodies, and associations from the fishing and maritime-tourism sectors. This process aimed to find solutions that balance the conservation of marine ecosystems with the impact on economic activities.

In a press release from the Azores government, José Manuel Bolieiro, the regional government president, emphasized the significant contribution the Azores is making to help Portugal meet international conservation targets. The autonomous region of the Azores, located approximately 932 miles west of Portugal’s mainland, is committed to protecting the sea, biodiversity, and the quality of life for all living organisms on the planet.

The new law also requires a management strategy and the revision of marine protected areas along the coast of Portugal to be published within three years. This adaptive approach allows for the incorporation of new scientific evidence into each revision cycle, optimizing the management and success of these protected areas.

Overall, the creation of the North Atlantic’s largest marine protected area off the coast of the island of San Miguel in the Azores demonstrates a proactive approach to conservation and environmental protection. This decision reflects a commitment to preserving the unique marine ecosystems and biodiversity found in this region, while also supporting sustainable economic activities.