Puna I'a, Biocultural Linkages, and the Well-Being of Governance in Taiarapu, Tahiti

The vulnerability of coral reef systems to natural and anthropogenic disturbances is evident when ecologically rich but vulnerable coral dominant systems transition post disturbance into ecosystems with algal dominance and... [ view full abstract ]

The vulnerability of coral reef systems to natural and anthropogenic disturbances is evident when ecologically rich but vulnerable coral dominant systems transition post disturbance into ecosystems with algal dominance and reduced fish biodiversity. However, in French Polynesia’s Taiarapu coast on the island of Tahiti, reefs coupled to several Ma‘ohi communities offer evidence of decreased vulnerability and demonstrate a high level of adaptation and resilience to multi-driver changes of reef wellness. Importantly, these communities have begun to implement a hybrid governance scheme over nearshore marine resources in which bureaucratized and scientized reef management is complemented by local actors’ socials norms and values, traditional knowledge, and management practices called rahui (Bambridge 2016). Ongoing work in these small-scale MPAs (Designated Rahui Areas) associated with specific communities suggests that fostering such hybrid approaches during the design, implementation, and monitoring phases of a conservation program, in a culturally sensitive fashion can increase compliance and conservation effectiveness. But, this raises the question, how is cultural sensitivity constituted? How does it materialize? What aspects, dimensions, or characteristics of cultural sensitivity best contribute to desired marine protection, governance outcomes, and community well-being? While the official, state-recognized and locally valued implementation of rahui-based small-scale MPAs is already showing highly suggestive results and potential for decreasing vulnerability and enhancing local agency, the dynamic linkages involved in coupling human and non-human systems around Taiarapu’s coral reefs and communities in an enduringly effective manner will require active attention to methods drawn from across the social sciences.