Protected areas: Public, private or partnerships

Terrestrial ecosystems, when set aside from consumptive/extractive uses as ‘protected areas’, provide a range of goods and services. Species that are rare and endangered are protected from development threats and so have an increased chance of continued survival. People can enjoy the experiences gained from visiting such areas — be they interested in learning, thrills, vistas, exercise or relaxation. Scientists can use the ecosystems as laboratories in which to gain a better understanding of life on earth. The gene pool embedded in the ecosystem may offer the potential for discoveries of compounds that have beneficial pharmaceutical properties…