The sea provides us with oxygen, food, jobs, and an inexhaustible source of wonder. But if we don’t do more to protect it, the ocean’s health and the wealth it produces will continue to decline.

Unlike on land, where we are keenly aware of the need for protection, only a tiny fraction of the ocean has been protected by law. And even when marine areas are protected, damaging activities are often still permitted to continue within their boundaries.

Establishing protected areas in the ocean is one of the most effective ways to safeguard marine and coastal biodiversity. There are a variety of different designations and legal tools available to protect sensitive areas of the sea – and West Coast is working to ensure that these tools are used effectively to maintain healthy oceans and marine wildlife.