In defence of protected landscapes. A reply to some criticisms of category v protected areas and suggestions for improvement

Abstract

This paper discusses some of the main criticisms that Category protected areas has received, while addressing, at the same time, the “new paradigm” for protected areas, the challenges it creates for biodiversity conservation, and suggesting an alternative solution. It argues the need and significance of Category V protected areas in many regions of the world, as the most suitable, or even the only existing option for protecting biodiversity. Wherever it has been measured, the effectiveness of Category V in conserving biodiversity seems not to be lower than other categories. It also stresses the risks of throwing out Categories V and VI from the network of protected areas, as some critics have suggested, namely removing legitimate biodiversity protected areas, alienating large constituencies, and weakening national and international legal, policy, and financial backing and attention to some of the most important biodiverse areas on Earth. Finally, it discusses the possibility of developing resolution into this category by adding nonexclusive subcategories which would allow to see the various functions that Category V protected areas are performing, other than vital biodiversity protection function