Report | August 1, 2016

Oceana’s position on the status of Atlantic MPA Network for OSPAR ICG-MPA

International recommendations point out the necessity of creating a comprehensive and ideally global MPA network to ensure the conservation of marine habitats. States have collectively agreed to establish “equitably managed, ecologically representative and well-connected systems of MPAs” following the CBD commitments especially under Aichi Target 11, which was further translated into North East Atlantic Environment Strategy fort the OSPAR region.

Big advances have been made so far and, at the end of 2012, the NE Atlantic MPA network had 132* sites designated as SCIs/SACs belonging to the Natura 2000 Network and 333 MPAs designated under OSPAR Commission (324 within CP national jurisdiction and 7 in ABJN/high seas). On the other hand, also from a biological point of view, the EBSA process has identified priority areas that should be submitted to CBD repository body and will guide the future implementation of the MPA Network. Cooperation with other competent Authorities for managing sectorial human activities, should also be taken into account including measures involving temporal and spatial restrictions and other fisheries management (e.g. NEAFC temporary closures), aiming to preserve and restore certain target species and Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems (VMEs).