November 21, 2025
How MPAs increase resilience against climate change
The ocean is the planet’s largest ecosystem, playing a vital role in regulating our climate, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining human health. Yet, it is under increasing threat from human activities and the accelerating impacts of climate change. One of the most effective tools we have, to safeguard the ocean’s health and enhance its resilience is the establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).
What are MPAs?
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) “Marine Protected Areas are clearly defined geographical spaces that are legally or effectively managed to achieve the long-term conservation of nature, along with associated ecosystem services and cultural values”. These areas are designated to protect critical marine habitats from destructive human activities such as overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction.
Why MPAs matter
MPAs serve as safe havens for marine biodiversity, allowing ecosystems to recover and thrive. By limiting harmful activities, MPAs help restore ecological balance, increase species’ abundance, and improve the overall health of the ocean. This, in turn, enhances the ocean’s ability to perform essential climate-regulating functions.
A healthy ocean absorbs vast amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂), acting as a natural buffer against climate change. MPAs protect blue carbon ecosystems such as seagrass meadows, mangroves, and salt marshes, which are particularly effective at storing carbon. These “blue forests” not only absorb CO₂ through photosynthesis but also trap carbon in sediments for centuries, making them powerful allies in the fight against global warming.
Climate change and the ocean
Climate change is already reshaping marine environments. Rising global temperatures are causing ocean acidification, melting glaciers, shifting species’ distribution, and altering weather patterns. In regions like the North Sea, climate impacts are evident in changing water circulation, declining oxygen levels, and reduced primary production, threatening the stability of marine ecosystems.
Despite bearing the brunt of climate impacts, the ocean also holds solutions. According to research, ocean-based climate action, including expanding MPAs, could reduce global emissions significantly, bringing us nearly halfway to the goal of limiting warming to 2°C by 2050.
MPAs as climate solutions
Effectively managed and fully protected MPAs can:
- Increase biodiversity, which strengthens ecosystem resilience.
- Protect carbon-rich habitats, enhancing natural carbon sequestration.
- Reduce stress on marine populations, especially through sustainable fisheries management.
- Support adaptation, by preserving ecosystems that buffer coastal communities from extreme weather events.
For example, reducing fishing pressure in MPAs allows fish populations to recover, which not only benefits biodiversity but also improves food security and livelihoods. Additionally, intact habitats like coral reefs and mangroves protect coastlines from storm surges and erosion – natural defences that are increasingly vital as climate impacts intensify.
The way forward
The key actions identified to exploit the full potential of MPAs in building climate resilience are:
- Expand MPA coverage, especially in biodiversity hotspots and carbon-rich areas.
- Ensure their effective management and enforcement, to prevent destructive or industrial activities within them and ensure long-term success.
- Integrate MPAs into broader climate and ocean governance frameworks, recognizing their role in both mitigation and adaptation.
The ocean is not just a victim of climate change, it is a powerful part of the solution. By protecting marine ecosystems through MPAs, we can safeguard biodiversity, enhance climate resilience, and secure a healthier future for both people and the planet.
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