Implications of ‘other effective area-based conservation measures’ for marine conservation

Abstract

After nearly a decade of discussion, the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) adopted an official definition and criterion for ‘other effective area-based conservation measures’ (OECMs). OECMs allow area-based management initiatives that are not considered to be protected areas to be counted as conserved areas and consequently contribute towards global biodiversity conservation goals like Aichi Target 11. However, there is a question of how this designation will be interpreted, applied, and monitored. In an effort to help answer some of these questions with regards to the marine realm, this paper assesses this recent definition and criterion against a number case studies from fisheries, cultural, industrial, and other categories of area-based initiatives in addition to existing databases. This broad range of examples shows great promise for OECMs, but also highlights precautions that must be considered. Ultimately, this research aims to help illuminate innovative practices for marine conservation and contribute to the achievement of the global marine conservation targets in a meaningful way.