JOURNAL ARTICLE

Ineffective marine protected areas in Azores.

  • Published In: Science, 2026, v. 391, n. 6785. P. 564 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Barreiros, João Pedro; Aguilar-Perera, Alfonso; Anderson, Antônio Batista; Barcelos, Luís M. D.; Beheregaray, Luciano B.; Díaz-Ferguson, Edgardo 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses the recent expansion of marine protected areas (MPAs) in the Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal, which increased by 30% as part of efforts to meet European Union conservation targets. Despite this increase, the newly designated MPAs primarily cover deep waters and do not adequately protect shallow coastal ecosystems, where most fishing activity occurs. The article highlights concerns about the effectiveness of these MPAs, noting that only half are classified as no-take zones, and emphasizes the need for governance structures that prioritize scientific evidence and stakeholder participation to ensure effective biodiversity protection. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Science. 2026/02, Vol. 391, Issue 6785, p564
  • Document Type:Letter
  • Subject Area:Science
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0036-8075
  • DOI:10.1126/science.aed7607
  • Accession Number:191379652
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