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Countries with coastlines have jurisdiction over nearby waters, deciding to open some economic activity and to protect others from possibly destructive industries like fishing, recreation, and energy exploration.
2.09% of the world ocean is under some form of protection.
Dark blue: Protected marine areas – Similar to national marine areas are often open to fishing and recreation, but have limits on a catch, take, and waste left behind.
Light blue: Exclusive Economic Zones – Under the United Nations Law of the Sea, a country’s sovereign rights extend 200 nautical miles from its shoreline. Governments determine how the area is used, and by whom.
