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Email this article OCEANIC ARCHIPELAGOS, THE LAW OF THE SEA AND SUSTAINABLE OCEAN GOVERNANCE: THE CONTRIBUTION OF MACARONESIA AND THE AZORES TO MARINE CONSERVATION
Abstract
Objective: This article aims to analyse the international, European and national legal framework governing the oceans, with particular emphasis on the role of the Macaronesian archipelagos and the Azores in marine biodiversity conservation. It seeks to demonstrate the importance of maritime spatial planning as a key instrument for the sustainable management of marine resources and the protection of ocean ecosystems.
Methodology: The study adopts a qualitative, doctrinal and normative legal approach, based on an analysis of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), European Union and Portuguese legislation on maritime spatial planning, as well as a review of the relevant scientific literature and international instruments concerning ocean governance, marine conservation and environmental sustainability. The research also examines the case of Macaronesia and the Azores as strategically important regions for integrated ocean governance.
Results: The findings demonstrate that the Macaronesian archipelagos play a crucial ecological and geostrategic role in marine biodiversity conservation and sustainable ocean governance. The study shows that maritime spatial planning is an essential tool for reconciling the economic use of marine resources with ecosystem protection. Nevertheless, significant challenges remain, including institutional fragmentation, the need for stronger multi-level governance, the impacts of climate change, and enhanced international cooperation.
Conclusions: The article concludes that effective ocean protection requires a multi-level governance framework grounded in the integration of the Law of the Sea, European Union law and national legislation. It advocates strengthening maritime spatial planning, scientific and institutional cooperation, the establishment and effective management of marine protected areas, and the development of public policies that reconcile sustainable development, the blue economy and marine biodiversity conservation. Within this context, the Azores and the wider Macaronesian region play a strategic role in advancing innovative models of ocean governance.
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References
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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21902/Revrima.v3i53.8377
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