Denmark faces criticism for its marine protection efforts, deemed inadequate despite the nation’s accession to the UN’s global ocean treaty aimed at protecting 30 percent of the Earth’s oceans. Environmentalists express concern that the country’s marine protection falls short.

Only 1.9 percent of Danish sea areas are effectively protected against bottom-dragging fishing gear, a practice that significantly damages the seabed. This figure is based on a report from the Biodiversity Council under the government.

While Denmark has implemented various protection schemes covering nearly a third of its national waters, experts argue these measures are insufficient. WWF’s Thomas Kirk Sørensen states that Denmark has been “really bad” at taking care of its seas.

Marine biologist Jørgen L.S. Hansen asserts that the majority of marine protection in Denmark is inadequate, offering minimal benefits to biodiversity and failing to enhance fish resources.

The UN is pushing for greater ocean protection, aiming for 30 percent through measures including bans on commercial fishing in designated areas. To implement this plan, 60 countries need to ratify the UN’s global ocean treaty. As of now, 22 countries have done so, and the goal is to reach at least 60 during the UN’s ocean conference in Nice from June 9–13. Denmark acceded to the agreement on May 20 of this year.