Economics of marine protected areas

Marine protected areas (MPAs) can significantly enhance fishery benefits and economic value, particularly when fully protected. A study analyzing the bioeconomic impacts of MPAs, including Lake Malawi National Park, found that these areas contribute to sustainable fisheries by increasing fish stocks outside reserve boundaries—a phenomenon known as 'spill-over.' The research employed dynamic spatial models and game theory tools like Ecopath with Ecosim (Ecoseed) to evaluate costs and benefits. Findings indicate that well-designed MPAs can yield economic gains for local communities, even when accounting for implementation costs. This approach offers a cost-effective strategy for balancing conservation and fisheries management in regions like East and Southern Africa.

Sumaila, U. R., & Alder, J. (2014). Economics of marine protected areas. Fisheries Centre. University of British Columbia. https://doi.org/10.14288/1.0074791