Empowering communities in conservation: A participatory mapping approach for coastal contexts

Research shows that in low-income settings, the likelihood of marine protected areas (MPAs) to deliver either social or ecological benefits depends on effective participation of local communities from the very outset. The... [ view full abstract ]

Research shows that in low-income settings, the likelihood of marine protected areas (MPAs) to deliver either social or ecological benefits depends on effective participation of local communities from the very outset. The spatial nature of protected areas means that participatory mapping is an ideal tool for participation processes. Used equitably, it can empower communities, elevate local knowledge and needs in the design phase, and open dialogue between practitioners and communities when discussing potential boundaries and their impacts. However, technological and skills requirements have prevented local practitioners from using this powerful tool, resulting in a situation when mapping is controlled by outside experts, and communities often lose control of their local knowledge. In this paper I outline an accessible participatory mapping method for visualising and understanding community use and value of marine resources. The relatively low-tech approach, which can be done using standard computers, free software and basic GIS skills, helps to overcome some of the more common barriers to participatory mapping for local facilitators. When combined with livelihood information, these maps provide a powerful insight into the importance and diverse value and benefits of marine areas for coastal livelihoods. In fishing communities where this approach was implemented it was reported that the maps made people feel empowered to negotiate with government about decisions which affect their fishing activities. Bringing communities into the conservation conversation from the beginning improves the likelihood that they will be supportive, which in turn improves the likelihood of positive ecological and social outcomes from MPAs.