Contracting for Conservation in the Central Pacific: An Overview of the Phoenix Islands Protected Area

The Phoenix Islands Protected Area (PIPA) stands as a pioneering model for marine conservation in the Central Pacific, demonstrating how large-scale protected areas can be established and managed through innovative contractual agreements. This study highlights PIPA's unique governance structure, which combines international treaties with domestic legislation to create one of the world's largest fully protected marine reserves. The research approach involves analyzing the legal framework, implementation challenges, and ecological benefits, offering insights into effective conservation strategies for remote and biologically rich regions. By focusing on contractual mechanisms, this work provides a blueprint for balancing sovereignty, conservation, and sustainable development in the Pacific Islands.

Shelley, P. (2012). Contracting for Conservation in the Central Pacific: An Overview of the Phoenix Islands Protected Area. Proceedings of the ASIL Annual Meeting, 106, 511–516. https://doi.org/10.5305/procannmeetasil.106.0511