The Atlantic Ocean plays a crucial role in global sustainability, supporting diverse ecosystems, regulating climate, and providing livelihoods. However, overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change have significantly threatened its biodiversity. Addressing these challenges aligns with the global goals, particularly those related to environmental protection, economic equality, and life below water. Efforts to expand marine protected areas (MPAs) are essential in reversing biodiversity loss and ensuring a resilient future for ocean ecosystems.
Expanding marine protected areas in the atlantic
The Azores: Largest network of marine protected areas in the north atlantic
In October 2024, the Azores declared 30% of their surrounding waters protected, covering 287,000 square kilometres. This initiative safeguards deep-sea corals, whales, and other marine species, with half the area fully protected from extractive activities. Scientific studies have shown that MPAs can increase biodiversity by up to 30% within a decade, supporting ocean sustainability and global climate action.
Spain ratifies the high seas treaty
In February 2025, Spain became the first European nation to ratify the High Seas Treaty, a landmark UN agreement aimed at conserving biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions. The treaty, finalised in March 2023, requires 60 nations to ratify it to take effect, with Spain being the sixteenth to do so. This initiative supports the global goal of protecting 30% of oceans by 2030, ensuring the resilience of marine ecosystems against unsustainable industrial activities. Spain's ratification highlights its commitment to international marine conservation efforts and aligns with broader objectives of justice and strong institutions in global governance.
Ascension island's marine protected area
In March 2019, Ascension Island established a 443,000-square-kilometre MPA, banning fishing and extractive activities. The area, home to green turtles, swordfish, sharks, and tuna, plays a crucial role in ocean conservation. This initiative is part of the UK's "Blue Belt" programme, which protects over 4 million square kilometres of marine habitats across its overseas territories. Research suggests that fully protected MPAs can result in biomass increases of up to 600% in some species, reinforcing their importance in science-based conservation.
Designation of the naces marine protected area
In October 2021, the OSPAR Convention established the North Atlantic Current and Evlanov Seamount (NACES) MPA, an area vital for five million seabirds and other marine species. Based on scientific research, this designation highlights the region's ecological significance. Studies indicate that safeguarding key feeding grounds enhances biodiversity resilience and ensures the long-term health of oceanic species.
The protection of marine biodiversity requires global collaboration between governments, scientists, and civil society. Organisations such as the United Nations, non-profits, and research institutions play a crucial role in advancing policies that align with the global goals. Expanding MPAs, enforcing sustainable fishing regulations, and investing in marine research are essential steps towards achieving long-term environmental protection.
These initiatives demonstrate a growing commitment to preserving the Atlantic Ocean for future generations. As science continues to inform conservation efforts, expanding MPAs and enforcing international agreements will be critical in ensuring economic equality and justice and strong institutions within ocean governance.
For further information on global conservation efforts, visit United Nations Ocean Decade and Marine Conservation Institute.