Protected areas have become an increasingly important tool both in the conservation of biodiversity and in revenue generation through sustainable use. This is the only sure way to guarantee the protection necessary for many species, habitats and ecosystems in the future.
Integrated Protected Area Management features contributions that consider the design, management and sustainable use of these regions. Three principal aspects are considered:

• the theory and practice of designation
• community-based conservation and the concept of sustainability
• identifying priorities for management.

The emphasis throughout is on the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to planning and the active involvement of all stakeholders in decision-making processes as a means of ensuring long-term sustainability.