Toco is dominated by its coastal environment which is comprised of mangroves, sea grass beds, mudflats, coral reefs and rocky cliffs. These ecosystems have been sources of livelihood and food for the local community, as well as the basis of art, craft and decorations. They also provide other goods and services such as raw materials like seaweed, live specimens for aquariums, medicinal treatments and products, habitat for wildlife, water quality maintenance, waste assimilation and remediation, nutrient cycling, flood and storm protection, shoreline maintenance, inspiration and support of cultural, aesthetic and spiritual values and recreation. According to the various definitions of Marine Protected Areas as delineated in Article 1, the coastal habitat types described in Toco may be successfully managed under such a system. Scientific evidence shows that MPAs can produce ecological, economic, and social benefits under appropriate design and management conditions (PISCO UNS, 2016).
There are significant benefits both to biodiversity and stakeholders from the effective management of activities in MPAs. For example, situated within a World Heritage Area, 700 kilometers north-east of Sydney, Australia, the 300,510 ha Lord Howe Island Marine Park employs a multiple-use management designed to protect marine biodiversity, habitats and ecological processes associated with the volcanic seamount system. The management arrangements for the Park also ensure the long-term maintenance of the Island's tourism industry and the traditions and lifestyle of the local community (DEH Australia, 2003).
In the Caribbean region, marine protected areas (MPAs) have been created to conserve biodiversity, reduce conflicts from multiple uses, preserve cultural values, and ensure robust fisheries management and enforcement. MPAs have a major role in educating local communities and visitors about the culture, history and heritage of the areas they protect. In most coastal areas there is a history of use, culture and values associated with specific localities in the marine environment. There are often links to prehistoric use and legend, and traditional practices of use that are important in the understanding of present values and future options. Toco’s natural and cultural heritage must be protected in the same way.
References:
n the Caribbean region, marine protected areas (MPAs)
have been created to conserve biodiversity, reduce conflicts
from multiple uses, preserve cultural values, and ensure
robust fisheries management and enforcem
PISCO UNS (2016). The Science of Marine Protected Areas (3rd Edition, Mediterranean). Partnership for Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans and University of Nice Sophia Antipolis (pp. 22). doi: www.piscoweb.org
Department of Environment and Heritage: Common Wealth of Australia (2003). The Benefits of Marine Protected Areas. doi: https://www.environment.gov.au/system/files/resources/5eaad4f9-e8e0-45d1-b889-83648c7b2ceb/files/benefits-mpas.pdf