Social Transformations in Marine Conservation: The Case of the Multiple-Use Coastal Marine Protected Area Pitipalena-Añihue

Abstract

We analyse contemporary transformations in marine conservation taking the case of the Multiple-Use Coastal Marine Protected Area Pitipalena-Añihue in Chilean Patagonia. Data were collected through ethnographic methods in Puerto Raúl Marín Balmaceda. By using the concepts of promoted area and democratic engagement taken from the Convivial Conservation approach, we show how a network of local actors along with the State, NGOs, and research centers have progressed in: (a) reconciling economically significant activities with marine conservation and (b) developing a form of governance organised by a Local Management Council. The case shows the capacity of local actors to define and organise a marine protected area through links and networks with public and private organisations reflecting both national and global transformations in marine conservation.