New Calculation of World MPA Coverage is Twice Previous Estimates, but Still Far Below Target

Australian MPA Plan Still Subject to Public Comment Period

There has been some confusion in the international media today regarding the Australian Government’s announcement of its plan for a national MPA network, covering a total of 3.1 million km2 of ocean. Around the world, media have suggested the plan is effectively a done deal and the network has been created. Granted, the Government’s own press release may have fostered that impression. One must read 20 paragraphs into the release to learn that the plan is still subject to a 60-day public comment period before it can become law.