Strict protection, restoration and co-management of Marine Protected Areas

Our Focus

Science-Based Conservation Objectives

We will develop a holistic framework to support the definition of nature conservation objectives for Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and blue corridors in the EU and beyond, from an ecosystem functioning point of view.

Co-definition of conservation measures

We will also develop and validate a governance toolbox, uniting stakeholders and citizens, to co-define science-based conservation measures that contribute to the restoration and protection of marine ecosystems and support a shift towards strictly protected areas.

Showcasing of effective co-ownership and co- management

We will bring together stakeholders and citizens for co-developing tools and frameworks for conservation planning and management, and capitalise on the existing conservation initiatives in the Demo sites.

Ensuring effective conservation

We will set up a system for MPA monitoring and evaluation of conservation outcomes, test and benchmark innovative monitoring techniques, and validate monitoring and evaluation system to assess ecological effectiveness, evaluating the conservation effectiveness with a replication potential.

Blueprint development and upscaling strategy

Our main output will be a scalable and transferrable Blueprint for marine conservation management and planning, providing clear and tested guidance on innovative, efficient and cost-effective tools and methods for marine conservation and management.

Contributing to Mission Ocean

The EU Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters” aims to protect and restore the health of our ocean and waters through research and innovation, citizen engagement and blue investments. Blue Connect as part of the European Blue Parks projects will help protect and restore marine habitats.

Blue Connect Demo Sites

Together with Marine Protected Area (MPA) managers, authorities, industries, and local communities from 12 demonstration sites and beyond, BLUE CONNECT is co-developing, promoting, and demonstrating a systematic approach to marine conservation planning and management.

Discover our demo sites

Latest News

Shetland Youth Voice Summit - UHI Shetland Workshop Report

How do Shetland’s young people perceive the status of our seas? At the Shetland Youth Voice Summit, UHI...

Bulgaria’s first permanent seagrass exhibition opens on St. Anastasia Island

Just below the surface of Burgas Bay, there are meadows that most visitors to the coast will never see....

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Connecting Science, Governance and Practice: Bringing BLUE CONNECT Results into Regional Discussions

How can research project results continue to create impact beyond the lifetime of a project?

BLUE CONNECT at i-MarCo 2026: Advancing Marine Connectivity Research in Macaronesia

The BLUE CONNECT – Macaronesia Demo Site was represented at the VIII International Marine Connectivity...

Beyond Borders: BLUE CONNECT strengthens cooperation for marine conservation in the Black Sea

On 29 September 2026, BLUE CONNECT brought together partners, scientists, policymakers, practitioners...

Macaronesia Demo Site Advances Capacity Building for Marine Protected Area Management in Cabo Verde

The Macaronesia Demo Site partners met once again in Cabo Verde to continue their collaborative efforts...