Marine Protection Atlas

Momentum to protect the global ocean in marine protected areas (MPAs) is greater than it has ever been. However, progress has been hindered for a variety of reasons, including confusion about what ‘protection’ means and the likely conservation outcomes of a particular type of MPA. An accurate accounting of how much of the ocean is protected—and protected well—is essential for steering conversations and setting global targets for marine conservation if we are to achieve 30% protection of the ocean by 2030.

Since 2012, the Marine Protection Atlas (MPAtlas) has provided a nuanced perspective on global marine protection. The work to clarify MPA reporting became the impetus for efforts within the marine conservation community to create a scientifically supported framework to categorize, track and evaluate MPAs.

According to the MPA Guide:

• 3.2% of the ocean is fully or highly protected,
• while less than 1% of the high seas are protected-an unfortunate percentage that is hoped to be improved in light of the Global Ocean Treaty coming into force on January 17, 2026.

In  Greece, even though the country has set to reach the 30X30 goal with the establishment of 2 new marine protected areas, only 12 out of  174 MPAs (3,4%) are actually under protective regime.

Tools, such as the Atlas, are crucial in properly tracking – and demanding- more efficient and effective marine protection both nationally and itnernationally , and placing the safeguarding of the environment high in the political agenda.