Nice, France, 12 June 2025. Marine Conservation Institute announced today at the 3rd UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) that Cocos Island National Park has earned a prestigious platinum-level Blue Park Award for exceptional marine biodiversity conservation. Originally recognized with a gold-level Blue Park Award in 2019, Cocos Island is the first site to receive an upgraded award—highlighting its continued commitment to effective ocean protection.
Dr. Lance Morgan, President of Marine Conservation Institute, announced the 2025 Blue Parks at an event co-hosted by Marine Conservation Institute, the Republic of Costa Rica, the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People, MigraMar, EarthEcho International, and The Blue Quest.
Since its initial recognition, Cocos Island National Park has undergone a major transformation. The protected area was expanded dramatically in 2021—from approximately 2,000 square kilometers to nearly 55,000 square kilometers. It remains fully protected from extractive activities. Its nearshore coral reef ecosystems provide habitat for thousands of species of fish and invertebrates, including nearly half of known endemic species in Costa Rica, and many migratory species, including sharks, rely on its offshore deepwater habitats and seamounts.
“It is with great pride and happiness that we receive the news of the highest platinum recognition of Blue Parks status for Cocos Island National Park,” said Gina Cuza Jones, Regional Director of the Coco Marine Conservation Area. “This achievement reflects the great effort and perseverance of our team and strategic allies committed to marine conservation. Achieving this status reaffirms our dedication and responsibility to the effective protection of one of the most valuable marine ecosystems on the planet.”
“This recognition as a platinum-level Blue Park is a testament to the coordinated work, rigorous management, and long-term vision that guide our actions in the country’s protected wilderness areas,” said Esteban Herrera Herrera, Director of Protected Wildlife Areas in Costa Rica. “Cocos Island is not only a symbol of natural wealth, but also a global example of effective marine conservation. We will continue to strengthen our efforts to ensure their protection for future generations.”
During the Blue Park Awards event at the UN Ocean Conference, Costa Rica had a prominent role as a leader in effective marine conservation. In addition to Cocos Island National Park’s upgraded award, Cahuita National Park earned a gold-level Blue Park Award and Caño Island Biological Reserve was recognized as a “Blue Spark” collaboration that is making progress toward the Blue Park Standard.
“Congratulations to the 2025 Blue Parks,” Dr. Lance Morgan said. “To achieve the 30 30 target, we not only need more protected areas, but we need those areas to effectively protect wildlife and deliver the conservation benefits that will support coastal communities. Blue Parks are incredible models of success, and the teams of ocean champions behind these efforts inspire us all.”
Presented annually since its launch in 2017, Blue Parks now cover over 3.5 million square kilometers of ocean, spanning 23 countries. Marine Conservation Institute’s rigorous science-based criteria and an international panel of esteemed marine scientists are key to vetting and ensuring that these MPAs provide examples of the most effective marine life conservation.
The Blue Parks initiative highlights that the quality of protection, not quantity alone, is critical for the 30 30 target to achieve biodiversity conservation and restore ocean health.
About Blue Parks
The Blue Park Awards, established by Marine Conservation Institute in 2017, recognize marine protected areas that meet science-based standards for effective conservation. Blue Parks safeguard biodiversity, promote ecosystem resilience, and protect the natural beauty of our ocean for future generations.
Blue Sparks are collaborative marine conservation efforts that are making progress toward the Blue Park Standard.
About Marine Conservation Institute
Founded in 1996, Marine Conservation Institute is a U.S.-based nonprofit working globally to secure strong protection for at least 30% of the ocean by 2030. Through scientific research, policy advocacy, and initiatives like the Blue Parks and Marine Protection Atlas (MPAtlas.org), the organization works to ensure that ocean protection is both meaningful and lasting.
