In 2022, only 9.4% of the Mediterranean basin was covered by marine protected areas (MPAs), falling short of the global 10% target set for 2020.
As detailed in Statista’s new report on the state of the Mediterranean Sea, “MPAs are a vital tool to reverse the ecological decline” of the Mediterranean and are used to “protect key habitats such as seagrass meadows, coral formations, and breeding areas for fish and marine mammals.” Despite their role in maintaining the health of these ecosystems—and their impact on the ecosystems’ ability to withstand the effects of climate change—the Mediterranean Sea still lacks sufficient MPA coverage, particularly in areas outside the western subregion.
As our infographic highlights, although the Mediterranean failed to meet the 2020 MPA target, a more ambitious global roadmap—the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework adopted in 2022—has since been established. It aims for 30% of the world’s land and ocean areas to be covered by MPAs by 2030.
According to the Statista report, “for the Mediterranean, such a gargantuan task will require renewed interest and substantial funding. Estimates indicate the target is still achievable, but approximately $277 million will be needed to reach it.”
