Challenges beyond reaching a 30% of area protection

Aiora Zabala ^1,2, Ignacio Palomo ³, Marta Múgica ⁴

⁰The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK. aiora.zabala@open.ac.uk.

Npj Biodiversity +

|

September 6, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Achieving the 30% protected area (PA) target requires addressing governance, integrity, and external landscape challenges. Strategies include enhancing participation and cross-sectoral collaboration for effective biodiversity conservation.

Area Of Science

Conservation Biology
Environmental Policy
Socioeconomics

Background

The Convention on Biological Diversity aims to protect 30% of global areas by 2030 (30x30 target).
Spain has already achieved high terrestrial protected area coverage (36%).
Understanding challenges post-target achievement is crucial for effective conservation planning.

Purpose Of The Study

To identify and discuss socioeconomic and management challenges arising from high protected area (PA) coverage.
To propose strategies for addressing these challenges based on Spanish experiences.
To inform practitioners and researchers planning for 30x30 goal implementation.

Main Methods

Case study analysis of protected areas (PAs) in Spain.
Identification and categorization of challenges into three levels: PA governance/management, PA integrity, and the external landscape matrix.
Review of existing research and practitioner experiences.

Main Results

High PA coverage presents challenges in governance, management, and maintaining PA integrity.
Socioeconomic impacts and management complexities intensify with increased protected land.
The landscape matrix outside PAs significantly influences conservation outcomes.

Conclusions

Quantitative protection targets alone are insufficient for biodiversity conservation.
Enhancing engagement, participation, stewardship, and institutional resilience is vital.
A cross-sectoral approach is necessary for socio-environmental goals, especially as nations approach high PA coverage.

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