Publication of the New South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands Marine Protected Area Management Plan
February 27, 2026
The Government of South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands (GSGSSI) is pleased to announce the publication of the new South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands Marine Protected Area (SGSSI MPA) Management Plan.
Developed following the conclusion of the recent MPA Review, the new Management Plan sets out the framework through which the Government will ensure the Marine Protected Area continues to meet its conservation objectives. It outlines the processes, measures and governance structures that underpin effective management, and provides a clear roadmap for securing the long-term protection of this globally significant marine environment.
A Globally Significant Marine Protected Area
The South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands Marine Protected Area (SGSSI MPA) is one of the largest and most ecologically important marine conservation zones in the world.
Established in 2012, the MPA encompasses the entire Maritime Zone of the Territory — covering more than 1.24 million square kilometres, an area roughly five times the size of the United Kingdom. As of 2026, it contributes approximately 5.2% of global implemented marine protected area coverage, underscoring its importance to international ocean conservation efforts.
This vast expanse of ocean supports some of the planet’s most biologically rich and productive marine ecosystems, including:
- Globally significant populations of seabirds and marine mammals
- Vast krill stocks that underpin the Southern Ocean food web
- Cold-water corals, benthic communities and unique deep-sea habitats
- Important foraging grounds for migratory species
The MPA was established to safeguard these ecosystems, ensuring the long-term conservation of biodiversity while enabling carefully managed, sustainable use of marine resources and tourism under strict regulatory controls.
Strengthening Protection Through Adaptive Management
The SGSSI MPA operates under a robust legal and science-led management framework. Comprehensive reviews are undertaken every five years to ensure measures remain effective and responsive to emerging scientific evidence and environmental change.
The most recent review concluded in 2025 and resulted in a strengthened suite of management measures. These were formally enacted through the Marine Protected Areas Order 2025, and are now supported operationally through the publication of this new Management Plan.
The Plan:
- Explains the rationale for the MPA’s establishment and evolution
- Provides background on the key ecological features and conservation priorities
- Details monitoring, compliance and patrolling activities
- Sets out research priorities and data collection approaches
- Establishes review mechanisms and resource planning to ensure long-term effectiveness
Together, these elements ensure that the SGSSI MPA remains dynamic, transparent and accountable — capable of adapting to environmental, scientific and policy developments in a rapidly changing world.
Partnership and Support
GSGSSI extends its sincere thanks to the many stakeholders who contributed their expertise and insight throughout the MPA Review process.
The Government also gratefully acknowledges the financial support provided by the UK Government Blue Belt Programme, which enabled the successful completion of the review and publication of this new Management Plan.
