Conservationists welcome new marine protected areas

This means 5% percent of oceans are now classified as protected - from the previous 0.4%. 

Of the 20 marine protected areas that have been approved, four are found in KwaZulu-Natal.

This includes IsiMangaliso Wetland Park, the uThukela Banks, the Protea Banks and the extended Aliwal Shoal. 

Scientist Dr. Kerry Sink, from the South African National Biodiversity Institute, says the planning process has taken a little over 12 years.

"In terms of planning for these areas - we had to do a lot of research about these different ocean ecosystems. My work involved mapping the 150 different types of marine ecosystems and making sure that we protect some of them in this network. We produced hundreds of layers which reflect all the different activities in our oceans and try to design it in a way that it has benefits for nature and people and the least impact on economics and community," she said. 

She says securing these ecosystems is an achievement. 

"My involvement has been on the design but I am assured and encouraged by efforts across different sectors of government. I've had recent conversations with people working in compliance, and enforcement and those in the Navy - to make sure these areas are well-managed."

"It will take some time. It's an achievement to set our hearts on protecting and looking after what we already have in our amazing oceans," Sink adds. 

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The regulations come into effect on August 1. 

Meanwhile in a statement, Greenpeace Africa welcomed the move - calling for the department to be more proactive on climate change, water and air pollution. 

To read the detailed gazette, published by the Environment Affairs Department, click here.