Protected Marine Sites

A number of European Directives, international conventions, and associated national legislation underpin protection of Ireland’s marine environment. Ireland has an extensive existing network of protected marine sites, including Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs) designated under the European Nature Directives. Other types of protected marine sites include Wildfowl Sanctuaries, Nature Reserves, Refuges for Fauna, Biospheres, and RAMSAR sites.