Importance of Ecological Reserves

In the middle of the 21st century, practically no one denies that there is a global problem: air pollution is a reality and affects the entire planet as a whole. One of the consequences of this phenomenon is the threat to natural areas of great ecological value. To face such a threat, many countries protect those ecosystems that could be in danger if there were no special protection.

high value spaces

Ecological reserves, also known as nature reserves, are not just territories like others. They are of special interest because they are home to species of flora and fauna that are threatened and could become extinct.

To adequately preserve these spaces, some fundamental measures are taken:

1) prohibit certain economic activities within the natural area (for example, if it is a land area, mining activity is prohibited and if it is coastal territory, indiscriminate fishing is prohibited) and

2) limit the access of people (in most reserves visitors have restricted access to certain areas of special ecological value).

education and research

Ecological reserves are not only of interest from the point of view of fauna, flora and ecology, but also have a formative value for the whole of the society.

In these spaces, schoolchildren can learn all kinds of knowledge about wildlife and the importance of respecting the environment. environment.

On the other hand, in these spaces the researchers find a perfect laboratory to carry out all kinds of activities.

Economic profitability is also possible

You might think that a nature reserve could be used for all kinds of large-scale projects: theme parks, leisure areas, or mining activities. This assessment does not conform to reality, since there are many nature reserves that combine respect for the environment with economic profitability.

A good example is the Yellowstone Natural Park in the United States, a park that receives millions of tourists every year and that generates many jobs.

Countries like Costa Rica, Peru or New Zealand have decidedly committed to the protection of their natural reserves and thanks to this they have become world leaders in sustainable tourism.

Currently there are more than 600 natural reserves distributed in more than 120 countries. All of them are integrated into the World Reserve Network of the Biosphere promoted by UNESCO and constitute a treasure for the whole of humanity.

Image: Fotolia-Simoneeman