MARINE PROTECTED AREAS IN THE AZORES
THE EVOLUTION OF
MPAs IN THE AZORES
The history of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the Azores is central to the relationship of the Azoreans with the sea.
Since the 1980s, the Azores have led marine conservation efforts with the creation of several Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The Azores Marine Park aims to protect ecosystems and promote the sustainable use of marine resources. In 2024, the second amendment to the Azores Marine Park decree was approved, aiming to protect 30% of the Azores' marine area, further reinforcing the region as a global leader in marine conservation.
OCEANIC
PARTICIPATORY PROCESS
A participatory process that included strong participation from representatives of 17 entities across various sectors related to the sea.
Based on the best scientific knowledge and a collaborative approach, the process involved representatives from various sectors, who contributed their expertise to the review of the Azores Marine Park.
Over more than 40 meetings, all stages of the revision of the oceanic MPAs were discussed, including a shared vision for the Azores' marine environment, strategic and specific objectives, and the criteria to achieve them. All this work culminated in the legislative proposal for the RAMPA, approved in October 2024.
COASTAL
PARTICIPATORY PROCESS
The review process of coastal Marine Protected Areas differs from the oceanic process in that it encompasses more diverse and higher intensity of uses and activities.
Launched in 2023, the review process of the coastal MPAs in the Azores aims to actively engage the communities from the 9 islands in defining new protected areas. Based on solid scientific data and broad public participation, the goal is to create an effective network of protected areas to conserve and restore the region’s marine biodiversity, supported by the collaborative work developed in Communities of Practice.
APPROVED LEGISLATION
This legislation provides a legal framework for all existing MPAs and those to be designated in the future, ensuring a coherent network of areas with an integrated management system.
The new Azores Marine Park includes oceanic MPAs that will protect 30% of the Azorean sea, with half of that area fully prohibited to any extractive activities. This legislation also establishes the legal framework for managing the new network. Coastal MPAs remain under the current legal framework of the Island Natural Parks.