Azores Declares Europe’s Largest Marine Protected Area: A New Era of Ocean Defense

With a bold move,the Azores have declared the largest Marine Protected Area (MPA) in the North Atlantic-Europe's most extensive MPA. This expansive region covers nearly 900,000 square kilometers and protects essential habitats for endangered marine life against illegal activity.

New MPA in the Azores covers 900,000 square kilometers. Image Credit: Victor Katikov

Marine ecosystems are essential for planetary health, and areas like the Azores support incredible biodiversity, from migratory whales and dolphins to seamounts rich with unique life. Creating MPAs helps mitigate human impact, allowing ecosystems to recover, regenerate, and continue providing essential services like carbon storage and oxygen production. By limiting fishing, vessel traffic, and other destructive activities, MPAs create safe havens for marine life to thrive-preserving some of the last strongholds of biodiversity against threats like pollution and illegal fishing.

The Azores MPA isn't just about the numbers-it's about protecting key species and ecosystems in an area already burdened by human impact. The Azores' Blue Azores program, instrumental in pushing for this MPA, exemplifies the partnership approach required for impactful conservation. We commend them for their work.

Sea Shepherd's Model: Hardline Defense

Sea Shepherd's no-compromise model of intercepting poachers and illegal fishermen is essential for defending protected areas from exploitation. By partnering with governments, Sea Shepherd brings expertise, ships, and specialized equipment to the fight against criminals who threaten marine sanctuaries like the Azores.

Case Study: Vaquita Refuge Marine Protected Area

In the Vaquita Refuge, a Marine Protected Area (MPA) in Mexico, Sea Shepherd's ships play a critical role in monitoring and intercepting illegal activities. The organization works in close collaboration with the Mexican government, providing essential evidence and data to help enforce laws against illegal fishing and poaching. Sea Shepherd's continuous presence serves as a 24/7 deterrent, ensuring that the area remains protected.

This hardline approach is crucial in safeguarding the critically endangered vaquita and other marine life from destructive gillnets and poaching. By maintaining a vigilant watch and taking direct action, Sea Shepherd helps uphold the integrity of the MPA and supports the government's efforts to enforce protections.

Defend Our Oceans

The Azores' new MPA marks a crucial milestone, but real protection relies on action. With Sea Shepherd's model of intercepting poachers and safeguarding habitats, protected areas can become true safe havens. Join us in securing these marine sanctuaries for generations to come.

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