There is a growing body of scientific evidence that demonstrates
that the establishment of large-scale networks of marine reserves,
urgently needed to protect marine species and their habitats, could
be key to reversing global fisheries decline.
Marine reserves can benefit adjacent fisheries from both the
'spillover' of adult and juvenile fish beyond the reserve
boundaries and through the export of eggs and larvae. Inside the
reserves, populations increase in size and individuals live longer,
grow larger and develop increased reproductive potential.
Marine reserves could even benefit highly migratory species,
such as sharks, tuna and billfish, if reserves were created in
places where they are currently highly vulnerable, such as nursery
grounds, spawning sites or aggregation sites such as seamounts.
Large-scale marine reserves are areas that are closed to all
extractive uses, such as fishing and mining, as well as disposal
activities. Within these areas there may be core zones where no
human activities are allowed, for instance areas that act as
scientific reference areas or areas where there are particularly
sensitive habitats or species.
Some areas within the coastal zone may be opened to small-scale,
non-destructive fisheries providing that these are sustainable,
within ecological limits, and have been decided upon with the full
participation of affected local communities.
Marine Reserves (MRs) are not just about overfishing -even if
one of the primary reasons for creating MRs is preserving fish
stocks. They are increasingly seen as an essential global tool to
protect the marine environment, including from pollution -caused
particularly by the disposal of wastes (radioactive wastes,
munitions and carbon dioxide).
The Apo Island Marine Reserve is a very good example of how marine reserves can benefit communities. clcik on the arrows to see more of the Apo Island Marine Reserve.