The Azores Islands have made a significant stride in ocean conservation by establishing the largest marine protected area in the North Atlantic. This initiative aims to meet international conservation goals ahead of schedule, safeguarding vital marine ecosystems and biodiversity.
The regional assembly of Portugal’s Azores Islands approved the creation of this expansive marine protected area, positioning the archipelago as a leader in global ocean conservation. The initiative is part of a broader commitment to meet the United Nations’ conservation targets, which were adopted last year.
The newly designated area will encompass a variety of marine ecosystems, including, underwater mountain ranges, deep-sea corals, hydrothermal vents and diverse marine species
The Azores, an autonomous region located approximately 1,500 kilometers (932 miles) west of mainland Portugal, is renowned for its unique marine biodiversity. The archipelago consists of nine islands, each contributing to the rich ecological tapestry of the region.
