The Murcia regional government has announced its decision not to submit the Mar Menor lagoon for UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status. This disappointing choice positions the Region of Murcia as the only autonomous community in Spain without a recognised Biosphere Reserve. The decision follows the review of a report commissioned by the Ministry of the Environment from a consulting firm based in Madrid.

The report, which cost over seventeen thousand euros, examined the potential of the lagoon’s marine ecosystem for international recognition. The Ministry acknowledged the lagoon’s unique ecological, scenic, and cultural values but emphasised that the immediate priority must be the recovery of the Mar Menor.

Despite the lagoon’s ecological significance, the government stated that initiating the UNESCO process is not a current priority. Instead, efforts will focus on achieving ecological regeneration and ensuring the lagoon’s long-term sustainability.

The Mar Menor is already protected by existing legislation and is supported by initiatives such as the recently formed Mar Menor Scientific Advisory Committee. The government is also actively pursuing innovative solutions to reduce nitrate pollution in the lagoon, a significant concern for regional authorities.