In an effort to preserve the environment and restrict the indiscriminate use of natural resources, countries establish biosphere conservation zones. Learn all about protected natural areas around the world here : what they are, their types, classification, why they are important, and more.
What are protected natural areas?
The world's protected natural areas are extensions of land, whether aquatic or terrestrial, that are designated for the preservation of ecosystems.
The protection of the native species of each locality allows harmony to be maintained in the biological patterns. In order to guarantee the perpetuity of the species and its ecology.
These protected areas are generally selected for being recipients of migratory and native species. In addition to being virgin spaces, where the presence of man has not caused significant changes.
They are extensions of territory, created by presidential or ministerial decrees, therefore they enjoy legal and political bases, which guarantee the sustainability of the reserve.
Historical considerations
From the very beginning of humanity, man has attacked his own environment. Uncontrolled hunting activities to obtain animal protein decimated many species. They also affected extensions of forests, with the burning and felling of trees.
Before the industrial revolution, there was also no control in the use of many wild species and they had the perception that they were inexhaustible resources. Of course, the damage was not so severe at that time, thanks to the fact that civilization did not have the tools to destroy on a large scale.
For much of the 19th century, large corporations had their backyards in African villages and other underdeveloped regions where they could seize all the natural resources, without any control. Many species were quickly placed on the highway of extinction.
A large number of native animals such as antelopes, deer, bison, elk, among others, saw their herds reduced by the indiscriminate hunting of indolent people.
They also caused severe damage to a significant number of birds, which are currently undergoing habitat recovery programs. Bears, wolves and cougars were other mammals that suffered extermination.
It was not only the deterioration in the number of native species, they also introduced foreign species, which were extremely invasive and rapidly gained land, causing the ecology to lose its balance.
protected territories
Protected natural areas in the world were developed when ancient civilizations realized the importance for future generations of having spaces where people could enjoy places of relaxation by being in contact with nature.
Between many discussions and debates, they managed to reach agreements to establish some wild areas for conservation purposes. This is how the first protected natural areas or ANP were born. Trying to preserve their state without the intervention of man.
Around the world, environmental groups were created, which functioned as guardians of the environment and of those spaces that were being reserved, so that plants and animals could coexist in harmony. Ensuring that the species could be saved.
But as these protection zones grew, there were also economic problems to keep them protected. The constant presence of technicians, veterinarians and security personnel was necessary to ensure compliance with the regulations.
To bridge this gap in the availability of economic resources, it is agreed to give these spaces a controlled use. This is how national parks are born, through the park guides and by charging an entrance fee, it was possible to generate its own resources to support the newly created infrastructure.
Classification of protected natural areas
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) established a standardization for the classification of protected natural areas , according to the functions, management, and objectives of each one.
The categories of these conservation areas are as follows:
strict protection
A strict protection zone includes spaces that are protected from the presence and use of humans. With the exception of those persons authorized to collaborate in the care of all environmental conditions and biodiversity.
Conservation and protection of the ecosystem
The objective of this type of reserve is to provide the necessary protection to the biodiversity of the area, as well as the balance of the ecological system. It is designed to provide support to educational institutions, so that students become faithful protectors of the environment.
Preservation of natural features
They are the protected natural areas in the world, which manage a certain conservation region, in which the preservation of certain environmental features is necessary. Since these constitute an important part of the culture of the surrounding communities.
It is also applied in those areas, where the rarity of its landscapes and relief, constitute in itself, a natural monument.
Conservation through active management
Natural reserve spaces for flora and fauna, which require the intervention of specialized personnel, for the care and recovery of habitats.
This human intervention is not only in land areas, aquatic spaces can also be intervened. As long as they require attention, to guarantee the survival of the species that inhabit those ecosystems.
Protected landscapes and seascapes
They are all those coastal areas, established so that there can be contact between people and nature. Establishing the rules for the protection of its landscapes, animal species and the integrity of the entire ecosystem.
It is sought that people can enjoy these spaces, but that they can also obtain all the necessary information for their care and continue the evolution of the environment.
Rational use of natural resources
The natural protected areas in the world, which use the category of managed resources, have the objective of being able to promote the continuation of animal and plant communities, indefinitely.
They are a kind of sanctuary, where species can reproduce without fear. Of course, there will always be predators, but these will be the natural ones in the food chain.
These protection zones, allow the rational use of natural resources, to those nearby communities, which as their only means of livelihood have had these natural reserves.
Types of protected areas
The types of protected areas on the planet are very diverse; to classify each one, the purposes for which it is created are considered. For example, there are six types of protected areas. Each of them is mentioned below.
Strict Nature Reserve
Its function is the protection and ecological integrity of natural areas. It is necessary that in these spaces there is no intervention of activities related to man.
The settlement of communities, the construction of infrastructure that detracts from the beauty of the environment is prohibited. Its only north is to preserve the species that live in these spaces, so that future generations can appreciate their beauty.
Parque Nacional
The national parks of the world are regions that are protected by the laws of each country. These legal regulations oblige the authorities to ensure the protection and shelter of the native flora and fauna.
They cover large extensions of land, in which there are a large number of ecological niches typical of the region and sometimes serve as a stopover for many migratory species.
They are sanctuaries for many species that are in a state of disappearance for different reasons. Some because they were always very scarce communities or because part of their original habitat was destroyed by human intervention.
They are the best classroom for those who are enthusiastic about environmental education and agroecology. In the various parks around the world, there are trained staff to answer questions from visitors.
The largest biology laboratory will be found in the national parks. For this reason, many researchers choose national parks as the place to make their observations.
Natural Monument
Natural monuments are part of the protected natural areas in the world. These these areas are characterized by having within their limits, very beautiful, strange, unique and exotic geological formations.
In addition to geological formations, places with remains of paleontological interest, cultural values, among others, are considered natural monuments.
Habitat/Species Management Areas
The habitat-species management regions are extensions of land that are under the special protection regime. It guarantees the safety of the species that live in those particular regions.
The intention of establishing these protection zones is that they allow researchers to carry out their scientific studies, in addition to having the possibility of carrying out periodic checks of mobility and multiplication of species.
When ecosystems require the attention of specialists, they can do so, as long as it is to correct some type of imbalance in the environment. If not necessary, the habitat should continue its normal growth rate.
Protected landscapes and seascapes
These protected terrestrial and/or marine landscape areas cover large expanses of land and beyond the continental shelf. They have very specific conservation plans and these also include activities for fundraising, pro-maintenance.
Although there is a profit from the exploitation of their spaces, their main function is to maintain a balance in all the biological activities of these communities.
Protected areas with managed resources
Protected spaces with controlled resource management are part of the protected natural areas in the world. Its primary objective is to make rational use of all the resources of the reserve.
With this type of category, the aim is to find a balance between the use of available resources, safety and conservation of species. Many communities that live in the perimeter of the parks benefit from hunting and fishing. But in turn, they become guardians of native species.
Importance of protected areas
The protected natural areas in the world, are a support for the development and sustainability of different economic activities of the families near the reserves.
The fact that they are defenders of nature does not mean that they disagree with the use of natural resources. The only requirement is that it be done in a balanced way and that the spaces be protected, so that all biodiversity can develop properly and calmly.
Around the planet, there are countries that have huge amounts of native species, which must be monitored and given special care, to prevent them from being affected by the development of activities that involve large numbers of people.
Each country has its own specific legislation, but essentially, they all aim to protect natural spaces and the species that inhabit them. This raises the question: why are protected natural areas important?
So, protected areas, in addition to biological importance, also have economic importance. Through rational exploitation, ecotourism activities, guided tours for students, sport fishing, among others, can be developed.
It is important to convey to the public that making use of natural parks leads to ensuring their conservation for future generations.
Natural protected areas in the world and more
In the different continents of the earth there are protected areas, given the need to preserve the different species that can only be found in each of these regions. Each one has its particular beauty and charm, but in a way they are part of the heritage of humanity.
These are some protected natural areas in the world:
- Woods National Park buffalo: It is the largest natural reserve area in Canada, its extension is 45.000 km². It is located in the province of Alberta, maintaining much of its cultural customs, distinctive of the communities belonging to the last Ice Age.
The fauna of the region is made up of bears, wolves, moose and bison, which are the main attraction of the reserve. You can also find owls, eagles, beavers and other species.
- Yellowstone National Reservation: It is one of the most emblematic parks in North America and especially in the United States. It is considered the oldest in the world, its territory is around 9000 km².
Throughout its geography you can enjoy waterfalls, rivers, hot springs and impressive locations that will be a sensation for photography lovers.
The typical animals of the region are the famous grizzly bears, gray wolves, cougars, deer, coyotes. In addition to having a varied collection of trees, exotic plants, among others.
- Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve: This reserve is located in the state of Michoacán, in Mexico. It has an extension of a little more than 500 km² and its main attraction is to be the place that the Monarch butterfly chooses each year to make its migratory journey from Canada.
These animals, being in the reserve, enter a state very similar to hibernation, at the end of their state of relaxation, they begin their return flight invading the sky with beautiful colors.
Thousands of tourists from different parts of the world visit the park to appreciate this beautiful multicolored spectacle.
- Poas Volcano National Park: The Poás nature reserve is located in Costa Rica, its attraction lies in the crater under its crystal clear emerald waters. It is also very rich in orchid species and beautiful bromeliads.
Its fauna is made up of squirrels, hummingbirds, coyotes and sloths, which coexist in extensive wooded areas and its warm climate.
- Los Glaciares National Reserve: It is the area of glaciers largest in the southern hemisphere, with an area of more than 7000 km². The one with the greatest impact on all the tourists who visit this important reserve is the Perito Moreno glacier.
Of all the glaciers, Perito Moreno is the most photographed and studied in the reserve. This has an ice mass greater than 200 km². A great variety of animals such as pumas, foxes, and ducks live in the nearby areas.
- Teide National Park: This protected nature reserve is located in Spain and is considered the oldest in the Canary Islands. Its main attraction is Mount Teide, which is the highest in all of Spain.
The complement of these impressive heights are some peaks that are always covered with snow. In contrast to areas whose landscape is desert and remains of lava in its relief.
The view is even more impressive if you take the cable car ride. From there, they can appreciate the flora and fauna of this natural beauty.
- Masai Mara Nature Reserve: The reserve is located in Kenya and has an area of 1500 km², with wonderful landscapes and animals of all kinds. Tourists are allowed to set up their campsites to make the experience more enriching.
The tours of the reserve are in charge of qualified personnel, who will guide you throughout the area, in addition to clarifying your concerns. Regarding the animals and their vegetation.
The most popular animals for visitors are:
- The hyenas.
- Rhinos
- Elephants
- hippos
- Lions
- Gnus.
- giraffes,
- Leopards.
- Salonga National Park: It is one of the largest natural protected areas in the world. Its area far exceeds 30.000 km², it is located on the banks of the Congo River and has an ecological reserve of great importance for the planet.
Its reliefs are not suitable for all tourists, for this reason most of those who visit the reserve belong to the world of science and research.
The animals that can be found are leopards, storks, monkeys, crocodiles, among other species.
- Addo Elephant National Park: It is located in South Africa, it is a sanctuary of more than 1500 km². Initially it was a place to protect wild animals, which were hunted indiscriminately.
It housed the group of 11 elephants that managed to survive the slaughter, for which multidisciplinary work teams were formed and had the task of providing these pachyderms with comprehensive health, in addition to the safety of not being hunted.
Thanks to the work carried out in this reserve, there is currently a fairly large population of elephants, which means that there is hope to repopulate their original habitats.
The national park also has other animals that are of great interest to scientists and tourists, among them we can mention: buffalo, African lions, hyenas and other minor species.
- Khao Sok National Park: This nature reserve is located in Thailand, it has more than 700 km2. All this space constitutes the area with the largest virgin surface in the country. Together with its enormous extension of tropical jungle, they make it a dream place.
Its fauna is composed of bears, deer, elephants and tigers. In addition to various species of birds and lush flowering bushes.
It is ideal for scheduling visits to tourists, it has a pleasant climate throughout the year, it has different outdoor activities, among which hiking, canoeing, cave exploration, among other activities scheduled by the park guides, stand out.
- Ogasawara National Park: It is a protected nature reserve located in the Ogasawara Islands, in Japan. This beautiful archipelago is home to numerous native plants, more than 100 families of birds, around 1200 kinds of insects. In without a doubt a sanctuary for thousands of animals and plants.
In the waters of lakes, seas, and oceans , whales, dolphins, sharks, and various fish reproduce. Corals have found a place where they will never be disturbed.
Without a doubt, it is a place very rich in beautiful landscapes, but the most important thing is that it is an area of unparalleled ecological balance.
- Sundarbans National Park: It is found in India, south of Bangladesh. It is a reserve rich in fertile land and you can almost see how culture and nature become one.
The scientific attraction, in addition to tourism, is that in its territory there is the presence of coastal mangroves, the largest in the world. The saltwater crocodile lives in its roots.
It is home to the Bengal tiger, now in danger of extinction. But thanks to captive breeding programs, veterinarians predict that this trend could soon be reversed.
