Solutions in Focus

Palau’s Protected Areas Network Act

Snorkeling at Palau's coral reefs © Ian Shive

Seascape of Palau © Ian Shive

Building blocks

Protected Area Network (PAN) Based on the legal framework, which recognizes protected areas established by communities and state governments, these areas become part of the nationwide network according to clear criteria, categories and application procedures. Adaptive and participatory locally based management Communities develop management plans and monitoring protocols based on biological, ecological, socio- economic, cultural and historical gap analyses, as well as mutually agreed targets and objectives. Management trainings State and local governments receive tailor-made training seminars, workshops, and hands-on events. Local communities build up their capacities, particularly in surveying and conducting scientific investigations, development of site preservation plans, identification and establishment of sustainable use practices, and educating the public about preservation and protected areas. Green Fees The Protected Area Network Fund (PAN Fund) supports management and monitoring of the network’s protected areas. The ‘resource-user pays principle’ was applied to define green fees for tourists visiting the country (Palau).

1

2

3

4

25