Azores Islands Establish Largest North Atlantic Marine Reserve

The Azores Islands have made a significant commitment to marine conservation by approving the largest protected marine area in the North Atlantic, covering almost 300,000 square kilometers. This initiative aims to meet United Nations conservation goals to protect 30% of the world's land and sea by 2030, positioning the Azores as a leader in global ocean protection. The protected area will comprise half fully protected zones, banning fishing and sea tourism, and half highly protected zones, allowing selective fishing. Concurrently, scientists from NOAA's Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory are conducting extensive monitoring of the Cheeca Rocks reef in Florida, assessing its resilience amidst climate change-induced stressors like marine heatwaves. This research is crucial for understanding coral health and the factors contributing to ecological stability. Both initiatives highlight the urgent need for proactive measures in marine conservation amidst escalating environmental challenges.