Although 196 countries pledged in 2022 to protect 30% of marine and coastal areas by 2030, only about 10% is currently under protection. A recent study highlights that this limited coverage falls drastically short for sharks and rays, many of which are critically endangered and remain largely exposed to fishing and other threats.
- 10% of oceans are protected, far from the 30×30 target.
- 79% of threatened sharks and rays have less than 1% habitat in no-take zones.
- Reporting gaps hinder assessment of marine protected area effectiveness.
What happened
In 2022, a global commitment known as the 30×30 initiative was made by 196 countries to conserve 30% of the world's coastal and marine environments by 2030. However, halfway to this goal, only around 10% of ocean areas are officially designated as protected. A study published in July 2026 analyzed nearly 1,200 species of sharks and rays to evaluate their coverage within these protected areas, especially those with 'no-take' status, which ban activities harmful to marine life.
The findings indicate that most species of sharks and rays have very limited habitat within marine protected areas. Specifically, 79% of threatened species and roughly 90% of critically endangered sharks and rays have less than 1% of their range inside no-take zones. Moreover, many countries do not provide adequate information on fishing restrictions, making it difficult to assess the true protection level these areas offer.
Why it feels good
This study serves as an important wake-up call for global conservation efforts, showing both the progress made and the significant work still ahead. By identifying specific gaps in protection for sharks and rays, the research provides a clear direction for improving marine conservation strategies. It highlights how focusing on biodiversity and species-specific needs within marine protected areas can yield better outcomes.
The creation of a public tool by the researchers allows policymakers and conservationists to examine protection coverage at regional and species levels. This transparency empowers stakeholders around the world to make informed decisions and advocate for stronger, more effective marine protections that prioritize the survival of these vulnerable species.
What to enjoy or watch next
Going forward, it will be crucial to monitor how countries respond to the study's recommendations, including aligning marine protected areas with critical habitats of sharks and rays and improving mandatory reporting on fishing restrictions. Enthusiasts and advocates should watch for developments in international biodiversity agreements and updates from conservation organizations as they ramp up efforts to meet 30×30 goals in ways that truly benefit endangered marine life.
Meanwhile, continued research and public awareness campaigns about the importance of sharks and rays for ocean health can help generate support for stronger protections. Watching for innovations in marine conservation policies and community engagement initiatives will reveal how this global challenge can be transformed into a collective success story for marine biodiversity.