Local Protected Areas
What is a local protected area?
A local protected area is defined as an “identified portions of land and/or water set aside for their unique physical and biological diversity and protected from destructive human exploitation”. Protected areas are vital in the survival of species on this planet. Without biodiversity, we simply wouldn’t survive, that is why it’s important to be educated and know about the importance and benefits of local protected areas in our lives.
The examples of areas considered as a local protected area include: (a) Natural Park; (b) Natural Monument; (c) National Park; (d) Wildlife Sanctuary; (e) Protected Landscape/Seascape; (f) Resource Reserve; (g) Natural Biotic Area; (h) Marine Reserve; (i) Managed Resource Protected Area; (j) Game Refuge and Bird/Fish Sanctuary; (k) Watershed Forest Reserve; (l) Watershed Reservation; (m) Wilderness Area; (n) Mangrove Swamp Forest Reserve; and (o) Other Categories established by law, conventions or international agreements which the Philippine Government is a signatory.
What is the importance of Local Protected Areas?
Protect Biodiversity
Due to mass extinction, it is important that we preserve species and protect them from destructive human activities. Local Protected Areas provide protection and a safe habitat for these species nearing extinction. In this way, species can thrive and survive without the harmful activities of humans.
Provides Communities With Economic Opportunities
Nearby communities around can benefit from a local protected area. Many of these local protected areas are turned into tourist attractions which brings revenue to the economy of the community. Community members can also find jobs in local protected areas or in the industry that supports eco-tourism.
Secured Food and Water Resources
Humans rely on food and water to survive. Protected areas safeguard these resources by ensuring that there is enough for everyone. Natural resources can grow abundantly in an isolated place where people can’t access them.
Fight Against Climate Change
The Earth’s forests and oceans are store excess carbon dioxide and regulate the Earth’s temperature. If these are destroyed, it would result in an unpredictable climate condition, and the world that we live in would be more susceptible to disasters.
What Can We Do?
Science and Education play a role in the conservation of biodiversity. If more people are more educated and informed, the more they will want to be involved. More education and research will increase our capability to preserve and protect our biodiversity. It doesn’t mean that we need more biologists to solve this problem; all we need is more people that can educate people and convince them to engage in activities and programs dedicated to environmental conservation. We have to take actions before our world gives up on us. We have to recognize that our environment needs protection before it’s too late.
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