Marine protected areas (MPAs) are well known for protecting biodiversity, but their effects on people who use the oceans are debated. Now a new review—led by University of Victoria marine conservation scientist Natalie Ban and 12 co-authors—illustrates that these protected areas can also support human well-being.
This global study found that MPAs that are well-established, no-take and well-enforced had more positive human effects on well-being. This aligns well with findings from ecological studies and highlights that MPAs can benefit both biodiversity and people.
Earlier in May 2019, the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services released its first comprehensive scientific report on the global biodiversity crisis, highlighting that one million species are threatened—and urgent action is required.
Currently there are approximately 14,830 MPAs in the world.
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Image via University of Victoria.