The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)

 The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has released a report titled Guidance on Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs). This report offers essential guidance on conserving land, water, and coastal areas through OECMs.

The term "OECMs" first emerged in 2010 within the Aichi Biodiversity Targets set by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). In 2018, at CoP-14, CBD formally adopted its definition.

About OECMs:

Definition: An OECM is a geographically defined area that is not a Protected Area (PA), but is managed or governed to achieve long-term, sustained outcomes for in-situ conservation of biodiversity, along with associated ecosystem functions and services. Where applicable, it also considers cultural, spiritual, socio-economic, and other locally relevant values.
OECMs cannot be areas already designated as PAs or located within PAs.

OECMs are a key tool for meeting Target 3 of the Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to conserve at least 30% of terrestrial, inland waters, and coastal and marine areas by 2030.

These areas can be governed by various entities, including government agencies, private groups (such as NGOs), indigenous peoples, local communities, or through shared management arrangements.

How OECMs Differ from PAs:

While Protected Areas (PAs) are managed primarily to conserve biodiversity within a specific site—such as preserving habitats for endangered species—OECMs can serve multiple objectives. They may, for example, focus on preserving areas of cultural or historical significance, all while contributing to biodiversity conservation outcomes.

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