The role of Buffer zones in MPA design

With conservation focused on meeting globally set conservation targets for effective marine protection, it is critical to understand how additional forms of spatial management are used to enhance and add to marine protected... [ view full abstract ]

With conservation focused on meeting globally set conservation targets for effective marine protection, it is critical to understand how additional forms of spatial management are used to enhance and add to marine protected areas conservation goals. One often overlooked management tool for marine conservation buffer zones. Buffer zones are widely utilised in World Heritage Sites and other protected areas, yet the concept is ill-defined and scarcely assessed within marine literature.

Buffer zones originate from terrestrial conservation, and the question remains if they can serve as an effective management tool in marine areas. This depends largely on their intent and application. We lack comprehensive assessment of marine buffer zones, leaving a gap in the understanding of their effectiveness or functional role; or an analysis for data-driven guidance on the size, shape and regulatory framework. While there are some papers discussing buffer zones, many of the conclusions are limited to case studies rather then conservation broadly.

This study examines the role of buffer zones in conserving tropical marine ecosystems, and explores their application in protected area management in an attempt to clarify their conservation effectiveness. By reviewing the literature surrounding buffer zones, this study aims to enhance our understanding of buffer zones to better utilize a potentially valuable tool to enhance the global effectiveness and relevance of marine reserves for both humans and ecosystems. Without understanding of the complementary role buffer zones may play to a marine reserve, they could detract from the conservation objectives they are intended to enhance.