On 1 August 2026, communities, organisations and ocean advocates around the world will come together to celebrate Marine Protected Areas (MPA) Day - a global initiative highlighting the critical role of MPAs in safeguarding ocean health.
Following a record-breaking 2025 edition, which brought together over 100 events across nearly 40 countries, MPA Day 2026 aims to further expand its reach and reinforce a powerful message: protecting the ocean depends not only on conservation tools, but on people’s engagement and connection to the sea.
Why Marine Protected Areas matter
Often described as the “national parks of the sea”, Marine Protected Areas are among the most effective instruments for conserving marine ecosystems and biodiversity. By limiting harmful activities and allowing ecosystems to recover, MPAs:
- Protect habitats and marine species
- Strengthen coastal resilience
- Support sustainable livelihoods and ocean-based activities
They are also central to achieving Europe’s ambition to protect at least 30% of its seas by 2030, a key target of the EU Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters”.
A growing global movement
Since its launch in 2021, MPA Day has evolved into an international movement, endorsed by the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.
This year’s edition places a strong emphasis on human connection, encouraging citizens, stakeholders and local communities to actively engage with the ocean and contribute to its protection. Activities across Europe and beyond will range from awareness campaigns and educational initiatives to citizen science and community-led events.
How to get involved
Participation in MPA Day 2026 is open to all. Individuals and organisations can contribute by:
- Organising or joining local events and activities
- Engaging in communication campaigns to raise awareness
- Sharing knowledge, experiences and success stories from MPAs
- Contributing to surveys and community initiatives
A range of resources, including communication materials and event guidance, are available through the official MPA Day platform.
Connecting Atlantic communities to ocean protection
For Atlantic stakeholders, MPA Day represents a valuable opportunity to strengthen collaboration, showcase regional initiatives, and promote community-driven approaches to marine protection. By linking local action to European and global objectives, the initiative contributes to advancing the Atlantic Action Plan and the broader Mission Ocean and Waters agenda.