MPAs in areas beyond national jurisdiction

The OSPAR maritime area encompasses extensive areas in the Wider Atlantic (OSPAR Region V) and the Arctic Waters (OSPAR Region I) that are beyond the limits of national Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs). This Area Beyond National Jurisdiction (ABNJ) covers approximately 40% of the OSPAR maritime area. OSPAR has agreed to designate Marine Protected Areas (MPA) in ABNJ with the aim of achieving an ecologically coherent and well managed network of MPAs.

OSPAR Marine Protected Area

OSPAR Decision on designation

OSPAR Recommendation on management

Nomination proforma/Background document

Milne Seamount Complex MPA

Decision 2010/1

Recommendation 2010/12

Publication 524

Charlie-Gibbs South MPA

Decision 2010/2

Recommendation 2010/13

Publication 523 (fracture-zone)

Altair Seamount High Seas MPA

Decision 2010/3

Recommendation 2010/14

Publication 549

Antialtair Seamount High Seas MPA

Decision 2010/4

Recommendation 2010/15

Publication 550

Josephine Seamount High Seas MPA

Decision 2010/5

Recommendation 2010/16

Publication 551

Mid-Atlantic Ridge North of the Azores High Seas MPA

Decision 2010/6

Recommendation 2010/17

Publication 552

Charlie-Gibbs North High Seas MPA

Decision 2012/1

Recommendation 2012/1

Publication 560

North Atlantic Current and Evlanov Sea basin MPADecision 2021/1Recommendation 2022/1Publication 771