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Date Submitted: Mar 26, 2025
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Evaluating the Role of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Enhancing Biodiversity and Supporting Sustainable Economic Growth in the Blue Economy
ABSTRACT
Background:
Marine ecosystems face increasing threats from overfishing, pollution, and climate change, leading to biodiversity loss and habitat degradation. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) serve as a strategic conservation tool to mitigate these impacts while supporting economic sustainability. However, their effectiveness varies based on governance structures, enforcement mechanisms, and financial sustainability. This study evaluates the role of MPAs in enhancing biodiversity conservation and fostering sustainable economic growth within the blue economy.
Objective:
This study aims to assess the impact of MPAs on biodiversity, fisheries, and eco-tourism, identify governance and enforcement challenges, and propose actionable policy recommendations to enhance their ecological and economic effectiveness. By analyzing global case studies, the study provides data-driven insights to strengthen participatory governance, financial sustainability, and adaptive management strategies.
Methods:
A systematic review methodology was employed, following PRISMA guidelines. Data was collected from peer-reviewed journals, book chapters, and reputable databases, focusing on empirical studies evaluating MPAs' ecological and economic impacts. The analysis was structured around three core components: ecological outcomes, economic benefits, and governance frameworks. Selected case studies, including the Great Barrier Reef, Tanzania’s Coastal MPAs, Mediterranean MPAs, Lekki Conservation Centre, and Niger Delta MPAs, were examined to illustrate the diversity of MPA impacts and governance challenges.
Results:
Findings indicate that well-managed MPAs enhance biodiversity by increasing species richness, apex predator recovery, and habitat restoration. Economically, MPAs contribute significantly to fisheries sustainability and eco-tourism revenues, fostering job creation and local economic resilience. However, governance challenges such as weak enforcement, inadequate funding, and limited community engagement hinder MPA effectiveness. Participatory governance models and revenue-sharing mechanisms improve conservation outcomes and stakeholder compliance.
Conclusions:
MPAs play a vital role in maintaining marine biodiversity and supporting sustainable economic development. Effective governance, stringent enforcement, and stable financial mechanisms are crucial to maximizing their benefits. Scaling up MPA coverage, integrating adaptive management strategies, and fostering multi-stakeholder collaborations are essential for long-term success. Future MPA development should prioritize participatory governance, innovative financing strategies, and science-based conservation planning. Strengthening enforcement through technology, investing in local capacity-building, and aligning MPAs with broader economic policies will enhance their impact. International collaborations and policy integration should be leveraged to improve MPA management worldwide. This study underscores the importance of MPAs as a conservation and economic sustainability tool. By protecting critical marine habitats, MPAs contribute to climate resilience, biodiversity preservation, and global food security. Strengthening their governance and financial sustainability will ensure their effectiveness in mitigating environmental threats while promoting sustainable blue economy initiatives.
Citation
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