When it comes to nature conservation, there is only better news than knowing that a nature reserve works when it comes to protecting biodiversity: that it does so economically too.. And that’s what a study explains edited by the Marilles Foundation in the Llevant marine reserve, on the coast of Mallorca.
This marine reserve is a bit unique. It covers 11,000 hectares and was declared on the proposal of the fishermen’s corporation of Cala Ratjada. It includes inland waters, managed by the Balearic government, but also waters managed by the central government.
AND in terms of conservation, it is a success. The number of fish and the diversity of species have increased significantly since this reserve was declared in 2007.
But where it stands out is economically. Declaring Marine Reserves and protecting these ecosystems comes at an obvious environmental cost. In this case, a cost more than covered, since according to the study, for each euro invested in the Reserve, 10 euros were obtained.
Where does this data come from? The analysis was carried out using a methodology known as natural capital accounting. This type of economic analysis of ecosystems is widespread in many parts of the world, but it is the first time that it has been applied to a marine reserve in Spain.
Methodology, available on the page of the Marilles Foundation, it’s quite complex, and includes issues such as professional fishing or natural capital. But what is most beneficial is something very simple to understand: recreational activities, activities linked to leisure and tourism represent 65% of this service.
Put in figures, we are talking about more than three million euros in services generated by this reserve, which have to do with leisure activities. Activities which, at the same time, are compatible with conservation and responsible with nature.
These numbers illustrate a very simple question: if nature conservation is well done, relying on local populations, and carefully managed, great benefits can be made. And this can happen even in places where tourism is already as present as Mallorca.
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