Nature Based Valuation
At Marinas Guardian we believe that developing compelling nature based valuation techniques is a crucial advancement in Ocean conservation, showing the enormous true economic and social value of a healthy, protected Ocean. Through the effective creation and monitoring of new and existing MPAs, valutaion of functions such as carbon sequestration, increased biodiversity, sustainable fisheries and even eco tourism can be demonstrated to represent true economic value.
The Issue
It is a fact that there is a huge gulf between the investment needed for effective marine conservation and how much investment is currently available. If we are going to achieve 30% protection by 2030 and collectively reverse the fortunes of the Ocean - which we must do - then we have to demonstrate the immense true value of protecting it.
Coastal communities represent some of the economically poorest people on the planet, despite being surrounded by and sharing an intimate connection with an incredibly valuable natural environment. By harnessinng this intrinsic value we can empower coastal communities whilst also protecting vast areas of our Ocean.
Our Contribution
Our approach to advising on creation of MPAs is to assemble consortia of qualified experts led by in country partnerships with local ministries, NGOs and academic institutions, complemented by international NGOs and academics as needed. We also take into account the full range of biodiversity opportunities, best practice in marine conservation, combined with a laser focus on the impacts, positive and negative, on local communities and stakeholders. Aware of the need to develop the Blue Economy, a developing theme of Marinas Guardian’s work is to ensure that relevant marine spatial planning processes are fit for purpose so that opportunities, within or adjacent to MPAs, are sustainable for this and future generations.