May 7, 2025 How are Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas different from Marine Protected Areas? by Youth Advisory Council (2024-2025 Cohort) What makes Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs) and Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) different? The answer is it’s not that simple! Across the world, the historical use and present ongoing processes of establishing Indigenous IPCAs and MPAs are deeply intertwined. In some cases, IPCAs can be MPAs because they share similar goals like including ocean waters and a focus on preserving biodiversity. Yet MPAs are also unique in falling under Canada’s Oceans Act and the responsibility of Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The bridge that connects the two? Both IPCAs and MPAs have often been spearheaded by Indigenous communities across Canada. They thrive when they are Indigenous-led, community-driven, and rooted in decolonial practices. Both IPCAs and MPAs are also helping Canada achieve its 2030 conservation goals. Articles for additional learning: Frequently Asked Questions about Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas What are MPAs and OECMs? A deep dive into the different forms of marine protection Explore Related Content Youth Advisory Council Canada’s 2025 Election: A Pivotal Moment for Biodiversity Goals and Indigenous-Led Conservation May 7, 2025 Read more Youth Advisory Council Legal Frameworks for Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas May 7, 2025 Read more Youth Advisory Council Learn more about the Aullaviat/Anguniarvik Traditional Conservation Area May 7, 2025 Read more
