Hotspots in peril: Misalignment of conservation efforts and ecological values in a shallow coastal sea

A striking misalignment exists between marine protected areas (MPAs) and ecologically valuable hotspots in the subtidal Dutch Wadden Sea, undermining conservation efforts. Despite 37% of the area being under some form of protection, only 2% qualifies as an IUCN-classified MPA free from human bottom-disturbing activities, with just 19% identified as ecological hotspots based on multiple biodiversity indicators. The overlap between protected areas and these hotspots is minimal—only 2%—highlighting a critical gap in current conservation strategies. This study quantifies the mismatch using high-resolution spatial data and multiple indicators, calling for urgent adjustments to align protection with ecological priorities in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Meijer, K. J., Franken, O., Witte, S., Holthuijsen, S. J., van der Heide, T., Govers, L. L., & Olff, H. (2024). Hotspots in peril: Misalignment of conservation efforts and ecological values in a shallow coastal sea. People and Nature, 7(1), 160–179. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/pan3.10757