SUFB 1244: The type of protected area matters to the ocean

There are many designation categories for protected areas in the ocean; however, they are often lumped into one category: Marine Protected Area. Marine Protected Area (MPA) is a term that has a very specific definition that is different from other protected area categories. 

A marine protected area is an area in the ocean where no extractive activities are allowed.

Some parks are called MPAs, but they allow extractive activities so they don't count as an MPA. 

Why is this important? If we want to protect the ocean, then we will need to have MPAs where no extractive activities are permitted to ensure there is protection. Some parks allow trawling to occur. Other parks allow oil and gas exploration and extraction. 

It can be confusing for us all to keep up with the protected area designations, but it's important to know what areas are truly protected. 

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