For example, on average, trawling activity is approximately 40% higher in MPAs than those outside of it. The statistical analysis involved specifically 700 of these areas or around 29% of the total surface area covered by its waters (both terrestrial and non terrestrial). Though it seem like it should be the opposite scenario, this is not the case. Further analysis suggests that even though these are called protected areas, the protection is simply not enough to be given its designated name. 

One alarming piece of evidence is also found. The same journal found that 99% of the MPAs had no information on no-take zones in the World Database on Protected Areas. Meanwhile, 50% of these had no management plan to carry out their protection.  The goal of the United Nations to have 10% of the oceans to become protected areas may have member nations rushing to obtain this said status. This leads to lacklustre standards, where  90% of Europe’s MPAs do not meet the standards found in the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. 

It is without saying that these standards should be met. A more concrete and transparent set of principles should be laid out for member nations to follow. The aforementioned databases and unions will need to coordinate with member nations and have both quantitative and qualitative elements. More stringent processing will be needed for these nations to obtain and MPA status, and when this status is obtained, stringent monitoring and protection will be put into place by selected officials. Penalties and/or incentives are also beneficial.