Aim
Following the expansion of the protection surrounding the waters of the Selvagens Islands Nature Reserve, it is crucial to effectively implement and monitor the Marine Protected Area (MPA). An effective MPA is fundamental to ensure the integrity of ecosystems, increase marine biodiversity, genetic richness, and the reproductive capacity of species, including many of commercial interest. By valuing the blue natural capital, it will be possible to continue marine conservation throughout the entire North Atlantic.
Accomplishments:
- – 2 scientific expeditions, several scientific reports and studies supporting marine protection, and valuation of the area;
- – The creation of the largest marine protected area with full protection in the North Atlantic (2677 km2 in an area of 12 nautical miles around the Selvagens Islands);
- – All species are now fully protected against all extractive activities including, but not limited to, fishing and mining.