The Ministry for Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge formalized the decision after years of scientific study and environmental advocacy, particularly from Oceana, which had long argued that these habitats were among the most vulnerable in European waters.

President Pedro Sánchez announced the new protections at the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, noting that the move raises the share of Spain’s protected marine territory to 25.7 percent. According to the government, this brings the country meaningfully closer to its pledge of protecting 30 percent of its seas by the year 2030.

The newly safeguarded areas span a rich variety of underwater environments. Among them are the towering seamounts of the Mallorca Channel, the intricate pockmark fields and ridges of Seco de Palos, the deep and ecologically significant Capbreton canyon system, the highly productive banks of the Alboran Sea, and the biologically important waters along the Central Catalan Coast. A sixth zone focuses on key habitat for seabirds, adding an essential ornithological sanctuary to Spain’s protected network.

Much of what is now protected became known through intensive scientific expeditions led by Oceana. Researchers employed remotely operated vehicles to explore depths that had previously never been filmed, uncovering coral gardens, gorgonian forests, sponge communities, and even a newly identified species of giant foraminifera. These findings helped build the scientific foundation that ultimately persuaded the government to proceed.

Although conservation groups celebrated the announcement, they were quick to remind the public that designating a protected area is only the beginning. Oceana emphasized the need for strong and enforceable management plans, warning that harmful activities such as bottom trawling could continue to damage sensitive habitats if rules are not swiftly implemented.

The next administrative step requires the European Commission to approve the sites for inclusion in the Natura 2000 network, which governs conservation standards across the European Union. Once the sites are accepted, Spain will have six years to put management measures into effect. Officials have indicated that precautionary rules will begin applying in the meantime to prevent irreversible harm.

The Spanish government has signaled its intention to move quickly. Environment Minister Sara Aagesen stated that more than forty management plans for marine protected areas are scheduled for approval within the coming year, reinforcing the country’s broader marine strategy.

Supporters argue that the benefits of these new protections extend beyond biodiversity. Healthier seas can support sustainable fisheries, strengthen coastal economies, promote ecotourism, and increase ecological resilience in the face of climate change. Critics, however, caution that without adequate monitoring, funding, and enforcement, the new designations risk becoming ineffective labels rather than functional conservation tools.

For now, the announcement marks a milestone in Spain’s environmental policy. Whether these protected areas become thriving refuges for marine life will depend on the political will, resources, and scientific commitment that follow.

Photo by Francesco Ungaro from Pexels