South African-born MPA Day becomes global ocean conservation movement

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ENVIRONMENT NEWS - Marine Protected Areas Day, celebrated annually on 1 August, has expanded into one of the world’s fastest-growing ocean conservation movements, with the 2026 event officially recognised as a United Nations Ocean Decade Activity.

The initiative highlights the importance of Marine Protected Areas - often described as “nature reserves of the sea” - in protecting ocean biodiversity, supporting sustainable fisheries, strengthening climate resilience and connecting communities with the ocean.

Global movement grows from South African roots

MPA Day was founded by Dr Judy Mann-Lang of the Two Oceans Aquarium and has continued to grow since its launch.

Last year, organisers hoped to see 50 activities take place worldwide, but more than 100 celebrations were held.

In 2026, participation grew even further, with communities, conservation organisations and ocean lovers around the world joining activities to celebrate and protect marine environments.

“I would like to say an enormous thank-you to every single person who organised an activity,” said Dr Mann-Lang.

“I know how much work goes into the planning and running of these events. This year we saw an increasing number of people sharing the importance and value of MPAs for ocean protection.”

Ocean Pledge did a presentation for over 500 learners to celebrate MPA Day in the Western Cape.

Garden Route and Western Cape join celebrations

South Africa once again played a leading role in the global celebrations, with activities taking place across many of the country’s Marine Protected Areas.

In the Western Cape and Garden Route, communities connected with the ocean through educational activities, hikes and conservation experiences.

Nature's Valley Trust introduced primary school learners to Marine Protected Areas through guided rocky shore explorations, while Conserve Eden hosted educational hikes at Robberg Nature Reserve.

Across the country, celebrations included beach clean-ups, citizen science projects, guided dives, snorkelling excursions, educational programmes and community events.

An amazing group of 60 children from the Christmas Tinto Primary School joined an event organised by the Helderberg Ocean Awareness Movement in collaboration with the City of Cape Town’s Smart Living Programme and Shark Spotters.

Connecting people with the ocean

In Cape Town, the Two Oceans Aquarium hosted activities introducing families to rocky shore ecosystems, while other organisations offered opportunities for communities to explore and appreciate marine environments.

Dr Mann-Lang said the goal of MPA Day extends beyond a single annual celebration.

“We want MPA Day to inspire a global movement that continues throughout the year,” she said.

She encouraged people to contribute through actions such as reducing plastic pollution, supporting sustainable seafood choices, volunteering at beach clean-ups, participating in research and spending time appreciating the ocean.

“Every action matters,” she said.