Why Marine Protected Areas Are Vital: 2024 Highlights
Why do we need Marine Protected Areas? Explore 2024’s highlights, from new MPAs to their impact on marine ecosystems and sustainable livelihoods.
Marine ecosystems are vital. They give us oxygen, regulate our climate, and support life on Earth. But these ecosystems are in trouble. Overfishing, climate change, and pollution are taking a toll. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) help by giving marine life safe spaces to recover and thrive.
In 2024, three new MPAs were created, bringing hope for our oceans and the planet.
What Are Marine Protected Areas and Why Are They Important?
Marine Protected Areas are special zones in the ocean. In these places, human activities like fishing or drilling are limited or carefully managed. The goal is to protect marine life and habitats.
You can think of MPAs as national parks on land. Just like parks protect forests and wildlife, MPAs protect coral reefs, seagrass beds, and marine animals. These areas are connected to what happens on land. Healthy coastal forests, for example, help keep the ocean clean by reducing runoff. Everything is linked.
MPAs also help people. They support local economies through tourism and sustainable fishing. They provide food and jobs, ensuring future generations can rely on the ocean too.
When Were the First Marine Protected Areas Established?
The concept of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) has deep roots, with early forms appearing in traditional practices. For instance, Pacific Island communities historically designated certain fishing or crabbing areas as off-limits to allow ecosystems to recover, a practice noted by Johannes in 1978.
In the United States, the Fort Jefferson National Monument, established in 1935 in Florida, is often cited as an early example of an MPA. This area, now part of Dry Tortugas National Park, was set aside to protect its rich marine environment.
However, the modern global movement for MPAs gained significant momentum after the first World Congress on National Parks in 1962. This event highlighted the importance of marine conservation on an international scale.
Perhaps the most famous MPA is the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, established in 1975. This iconic site protects the world’s largest coral reef system, home to thousands of species, and showcases how MPAs can balance conservation with sustainable use.
Understanding the 30 by 30 Initiative
The 30 by 30 initiative aims to protect 30% of the planet’s land and ocean by 2030. Over 190 countries agreed to this goal in 2022. It’s an ambitious plan to stop biodiversity loss and protect nature.
Right now, about 8% of the world’s oceans are protected. That’s progress, but there’s still a long way to go. It’s not just about making new MPAs. It’s about managing them well and making sure they actually work.
New Marine Protected Areas Created in 2024
Last year was a big year for MPAs. Several new ones were established, showing what’s possible when countries and communities work together.
1. Azores Marine Park (Portugal)
Portugal created the Azores Marine Park in October 2024. It’s now the largest MPA in the North Atlantic, covering almost 300,000 square kilometers. This park protects deep-sea corals, underwater mountains, and rare marine species.
Local communities benefit too. While some fishing is restricted, sustainable practices are allowed. Eco-tourism is expected to grow, bringing jobs and income to the area.
2. Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary (United States)
Off California’s coast, the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary was established in October 2024. It spans over 11,600 square kilometers and protects whales, sea turtles, and otters.
This sanctuary is unique because it’s co-managed with the Chumash people. Their traditional knowledge is combined with science to care for these waters. It’s a partnership that protects marine life and honors Indigenous culture.
3. Tang.ɢwan — ḥačxwiqak — Tsiġis Marine Protected Area (Canada)
Canada designated this MPA in June 2024. Located off Vancouver Island, it covers 150,000 square kilometers and includes underwater mountains and coral reefs.
Indigenous communities were key to its creation. Their input ensures the area protects both nature and cultural heritage. Sustainable fishing and tourism will help local economies thrive.
What Does a New MPA Mean for Local Communities?
When an MPA is created, it often changes how people interact with the ocean. Some activities, like fishing or drilling, might be limited. However these changes are usually made with local input. Most MPAs allow sustainable use, so communities can still benefit.
Fishers may notice fewer areas open for fishing at first. But studies show that MPAs help fish populations grow. Over time, more fish spill over into areas outside the MPA, making up for those early losses. Tourism can also bring new income, as people come to see the beauty of these protected areas.
The Benefits of Marine Protected Areas
MPAs bring many benefits:
1. For the Environment
- They protect habitats and marine species.
- Healthy ecosystems absorb carbon and protect coastlines.
- Over time, damaged areas can recover.
2. For People
- Fish populations grow, supporting sustainable fisheries.
- Tourism provides jobs and income.
- MPAs boost the blue economy, supporting industries like aquaculture.
3. For Communities
- They preserve cultural heritage.
- MPAs offer learning opportunities.
- Local communities are often involved in their management, fostering stewardship.
Upcoming Marine Protected Areas and Initiatives for 2025
The progress doesn’t stop in 2024. Several exciting projects are in the works for 2025:
- Scottish Inshore MPAs
- Scotland plans to introduce new management measures for its inshore MPAs next year. These will protect marine habitats and species while supporting sustainable use.
- Gorringe Ridge Conservation
- In the Atlantic, scientists are documenting the unique biodiversity of the Gorringe Ridge. Their work could lead to a new MPA here, protecting this underwater mountain and its rich marine life.
- Chile’s Conservation Bond
- Chile is launching a conservation bond to fund new MPAs and protect existing ones. This innovative approach links financial incentives with conservation goals.
These projects show that the world is moving forward. Every new MPA brings us closer to healthier oceans and a better future for all.
Global Progress and Challenges
There’s still a lot to do. Creating MPAs is just the first step. They need funding and enforcement to work. Illegal activities like poaching can undermine their success. Countries also need to work together, as oceans don’t follow borders.
Final Thoughts
The new MPAs created in 2024 are a big step for ocean conservation. They protect marine life, support communities, and bring us closer to the 30 by 30 goal. The initiatives planned for 2025 show that the momentum is building. By expanding and managing MPAs well, we can keep our oceans vibrant and resilient for generations to come.