Place-Based Conservation in Coastal and Marine Ecosystems: The Importance of Engagement with Underrepresented Communities

Through the years, research has described the importance of community-based approaches in the management of coastal and marine ecosystems. Coastal and marine issues are multifaceted and require place-specific approaches developed in partnership with vulnerable communities who are impacted by environmental stressors. Place-based conservation, a management approach that focuses on unique, place-specific characteristics, and other similar methods. It considers the need to integrate human dimensions and location-centered approaches, which are often lacking in typical natural resource management. Meaningful engagement with underrepresented communities can holistically account for socioeconomic factors and cultural knowledge that inform best management practices. As the health of marine and coastal ecosystems is linked with environmental quality and local livelihoods, engaging practitioners with knowledge of these systems can support science and trust in environmental management. This article discusses the importance of community-based research, local insight, various examples of successful management, and culturally relevant knowledge to advance sustainable place-based conservation.