Enhancing Bio-Cultural Management in Indigenous Marine Areas in Chile

Abstract

This article deepens the understanding of bio-cultural management through the establishment of Indigenous Marine Areas (IMAs) in Chile. While ecological conservation management has struggled due to governmental, top-down approaches, this research aims to show how the establishment of Indigenous Marine Areas (IMAs) has allowed Indigenous communities in Chile safeguard their customary uses and bio-cultural management. Based on analysis of three detailed case studies from a review of ten decreed IMAs, it discusses how IMAs are spatially prioritising the protection of habitats, species, and cultural relations, from different threats such as salmon aquaculture and fishing. The research develops the blue democracy approach, including participatory GIS, and semi-structured interviews to elicit local ecological knowledge (LEK) and values. Greater recognition of the network of IMAs can allow for greater momentum in monitoring and protection of marine ecosystems and Indigenous culture, where indigenous leadership over marine management is empowered.