Synergies between underwater cultural heritage and biodiversity conservation in Iceland: Insights for achieving 30 × 30 targets

Underwater cultural heritage (UCH), including shipwrecks, is increasingly recognized for its dual significance as both historical artifacts and ecologically valuable marine features. With the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) 30 × 30 framework, there is growing interest in exploring synergies between heritage conservation and biodiversity protection. Integrating UCH into 30 × 30 conservation goals requires a multidisciplinary approach that considers heritage laws, sovereignty, governance, planning, and associated risks. The current study specifically evaluates the potential of Iceland’s UCH sites for marine biodiversity conservation by analyzing heritage laws, public case records, and media reports. Additionally, vessel monitoring system (VMS) data reveal that Icelandic trawlers actively avoid well-documented wreck sites, suggesting an existing—though informal—form of protection. The findings underscore the need for improved site documentation, clearer policy communication, and stronger collaboration between cultural heritage and fisheries management authorities. Recognizing UCH sites as Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) could enhance both heritage preservation and marine biodiversity protection by leveraging existing management actions and de facto conservation measures, ultimately contributing to a more diverse and resilient marine protected area (MPA) network in Icelandic waters.