Ocean protection requires a suite of approaches, including the establishment of effective MPAs, sustainable management of fisheries and other extractive industries, climate abatement, and control of many types of pollution including agricultural and human waste, invasive species, noise and plastic. Blue Marine’s approach frequently involves collaboration between governments, regulators, fishermen, scientists and conservationists, and has shown that by understanding the issues and working closely with governments and marine users, people’s livelihoods can be improved alongside conservation of critical marine biodiversity and ecosystems. Creating MPAs is a complex process, with every situation and location different, requiring a variety of tools and techniques to research, engage, finance and deliver. However, four key elements are applicable in almost all situations: information that is available or should be obtained; people who are intrinsically linked to the area; the economics of establishing and financing the long-term success of the protected area; and appropriate management measures required. Lack of engagement in any one of these critical areas will reduce the effectiveness of the conservation efforts or could cause the MPA to fail altogether. Blue Marine has worked with governments and local stakeholders in locations in the UK, the Mediterranean, the UK Overseas Territories and internationally, to develop collaborative and sustainable approaches to management of MPAs. From developing a model of sustainable fishing in the Lyme Bay marine reserve on the South Coast of England, to delivering an endowment fund to support a fully no-take large MPA in Ascension, Blue Marine has experienced many challenges and successes through the evaluation, consultation and implementation process. Blue Marine’s approach frequently involves collaboration between governments, regulators, fishermen, scientists and conservationists.