“Azores are at the forefront of ocean conservation,” says José Manuel Bolieiro - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Azores Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, received the international “Peter Benchley Ocean Awards” in the “Excellence in National Leadership” category, one of the world’s most prestigious awards in the field of ocean conservation.

At the award ceremony, held at the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California, United States, the President of the Government expressed his pride at receiving the award, emphasising, however, that it was a collective achievement on behalf of the Azores.

According to him, this award represents the “recognition of the Azores’ leadership in ocean conservation,” based on the promotion of science-based public policies, with a view to building a “legacy of sustainability, knowledge and prosperity for forthcoming generations.”

“This is the path that will consolidate the Azores’ role as an international benchmark in ocean governance and the recognition of the sea as a common good of humanity," continued the President of the Government. In this regard, he praised the work carried out in the establishment and implementation of the Azores Marine Protected Areas Network (RAMPA): the largest in the North Atlantic.

Used as a case study at an international level, this network, which protects 30% of the Azores’ waters with areas under total and high protection, was established through dialogue and co-creation with fishers, scientists, young people and civil society.

On the occasion, the President of the Government praised the key role played by the Blue Azores programme, which stems from an innovative partnership between the Government, the Oceano Azul Foundation and the Waitt Institute.

"Together, we have aligned political will, philanthropy, science and community involvement towards a common vision: protecting, promoting and enhancing the Azores’ marine natural capital,” he emphasised.

The head of the Azorean Government also highlighted the work carried out by the University of the Azores, whose research “provided the scientific basis that made it possible to designate new protected areas with credibility and precision, serving as a powerful example of how knowledge can guide public policy.”

Created by Wendy Benchley and David Helvarg, the “Peter Benchley Ocean Awards” are widely recognised as the “Oscars of the Ocean.” Each year, they honour individuals and organisations that make an exemplary contribution to the protection and restoration of the marine environment.

The “Excellence in National Leadership” category recognises representatives of states that have distinguished themselves through ambitious policies for the protection and sustainable management of the ocean, with an impact at both national and international levels.