Marine (and Coastal) Protected Areas

Abstract

This chapter covers some of the most important issues relevant to planners in regard to establishing, maintaining and managing marine protected areas (MPAs). Despite debates about MPA design and management and differing perspectives on how they should be defined, it is generally agreed that they are one of the more effective tools for marine habitat and biodiversity conservation. This chapter emphasizes important ideas regarding the establishment of such areas, including the designation of networks of protected areas and transboundary protected areas. These are two approaches, among others, that will aid planners in protecting oceans and coasts.