The cultural and socio-economic impacts of marine protected areas in Catalonia

Tomlinson, Benjamin John

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.1/609

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Authors

Tomlinson, Benjamin John

Advisor(s)

Newton, Alice

Abstract(s)

This study undertakes a meta-analysis of diverse data about the cultural and socioeconomic impacts on the local population, caused by the creation of marine protected areas at the Illes Medes and Cap de Creus in the north west Mediterranean. Cultural and socio-economic data was collected from a number of sources, including: peer-reviewed literature; official reports and studies; official data; and interviews and discussions with key personnel. This data was collated and stored in the research-themed framework “Social Science Methods for Marine Protected Areas” developed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Data analysis identified gaps in data that could have long-term implications for the implementation of best practices at MPAs. Both MPAs have insufficient data about their socio-economic impacts. Furthermore, the attitudes, perceptions and beliefs of many users are not well documented. Despite these omissions, it is clear that the Illes Medes MPA has brought considerable socioeconomic benefits to the local town, through increased and higher quality tourism. In addition, appropriate measures have been taken to mitigate possible negative impacts on the local population, the towns and the marine environment. Although the socioeconomic effects of the MPA at Cap de Creus are as yet unknown, sufficient measures have been taken to ensure that the cultural heritage of the surrounding towns has not been compromised. There has been a notable progression in the managerial processes both within and between MPAs, especially with regard to carrying capacity and stakeholder participation.