Azores Creates Europe's Largest Marine Protected Area

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With a total size of 287,000 square kilometers, the Azores have established the greatest network of marine protected areas in Europe.

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Currently, 30% of the waters in the Azores are protected, with 15% totally protected and 15% under high protection with selective fishing.

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Since the 1980s, decades of maritime stewardship have been built upon with this milestone.

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Rare ecosystems such as cold-water corals, hydrothermal vents, and important migration routes can be found in the region's seas.

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Funding of $10.4 million helps with fisheries transition, enforcement, and management.

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1. Patrol boats, satellite surveillance, and ecological tracking are all part of enforcement.

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1. By maintaining blue carbon habitats, the MPAs help increase climate resilience.

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More than 40 stakeholder workshops were held during a six-year participatory process.

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With a national marine protection rate of 19.1%, the Azores are currently the world leader in ocean conservation.

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