Identifying opportunities for transboundary conservation in Africa

• DOI: 10.3389/fcosc.2023.1237849
• Publication Date: 2023-08-25T06:20:40Z
• Authors: Vignesh Kamath; Holly Brooks; Robin Naidoo; Angela Brennan; Bastian Bertzky; Neil D. Burgess; Osgur McDermott Long; Andy Arnell; Nina Bhola
• Keywords: Baseline (sea)

The conservation of natural and cultural resources shared between countries is a significant challenge that can be addressed through the establishment transboundary areas (TBCAs). TBCAs enable to harmonize cross-border governance management, increase protected area (PA) coverage, strengthen relationships neighbouring communities. In Africa, many ecosystems species ranges span multiple countries, making crucial tool for biodiversity conservation. However, there lack research on where established or need established. To address this gap, we conducted study identify opportunities establishing in Africa. We first compiled an up-to-date list existing continent. Then, identified potential by identifying next country borders are adjacent other country. also evaluated functional connectivity these PA pairs prioritized based size, connectivity, ease establishment. 27 8,481 Africa composed various possible combinations 2,326 individual PAs. Our results provide baseline offer better understanding might strengthened. highlight future efforts could safeguard connectivity. This information guide policy decision-making processes towards promoting sustainable use