Beyond national parks: Researchers explore a broader future for conservation

Beyond national parks: Researchers explore a broader future for conservation As governments prepare to convene in Armenia for the U.N. biodiversity summit, scientists are emphasizing a new conservation strategy that identifies regions where nature flourishes outside traditional protected zones. Known as "Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures," or OECMs, these areas maintain biodiversity over time, even when conservation is not their main goal. They could assist nations in achieving the global "30 by 30" objective, conserving at least 30% of land, inland waters, coastal areas, and oceans by 2030. A team of researchers from institutions including the University of Exeter, Jersey International Centre for Advanced Studies, the University of Kent, Manchester Metropolitan University, and the University of Gibraltar has analyzed the emerging role of OECMs in global conservation policy in the journal Annual Review of Environment and Resources. Their study investigates how these areas can support biodiversity while acknowledging local stewardship, livelihoods, and cultural values. Catherine Wensink, lead author of the study and executive director of the UK Overseas Territories Conservation Forum, noted that many countries have already begun implementing OECMs despite ongoing global discussions around them. She emphasized the value of examining how these ideas translate into real-world applications, particularly on a small, biodiverse Caribbean island. The review outlines the necessary conditions for OECMs to provide enduring benefits, including effective governance, respect for rights, and resilience against climate change. These insights are especially pertinent to COP17, the upcoming meeting of governments under the U.N. Convention on Biological Diversity, scheduled for October 19–30 in Yerevan, Armenia. This summit aims to evaluate progress toward global biodiversity targets, including contributions from both protected areas and OECMs. OECMs expand the scope of locations recognized for their conservation value. Areas managed by Indigenous peoples, local communities, farmers, and private landowners can preserve vital biodiversity alongside other uses. The study includes diverse settings such as sacred sites, pastoral lands, orchards, and surf spots, along with less common environments like underground systems and thermal vents. Julia E. Fa, a co-author of the study and professor at Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Gibraltar, stressed that recognizing an area as an OECM is just the beginning. Lasting success depends on clear responsibilities, sufficient support, and proof of ecological results. Additionally, implementation must honor the rights and decision-making power of the people managing these areas.