The expansion of marine protected areas (MPAs) is a core focus of global conservation efforts, with the "30x30" initiative to protect 30% of the ocean by 2030 serving as a prominent example of this trend. This paper examines a series of proposed MPA network expansions of various sizes and...

This policy brief summarises key findings from the project Hidden Barriers to Conservation-Addressing Social Acceptability to Enhance Effective Management in the Galapagos Marine Reserve, conducted by Heriot-Watt University with the support of The Rufford Foundation, in collaboration with the...

Protected areas are crucial for landscape-scale conservation, but striking a balance between centralised guidance (heteronomy) and local autonomy (self-determination) is essential. This balance is particularly important for parks that cross administrative boundaries or impose land-use...