Saving two fish with one wreck: Maximizing synergies in marine biodiversity conservation and underwater cultural heritage protection

Abstract

The oceans harbor critical areas of marine biodiversity and underwater cultural heritage, both of which require active protection and preservation for the future. Here, we consider how the presence of underwater cultural heritage can be used to bolster the conservation of marine biodiversity, and vice versa. We perform spatial analyses showcasing where sea-space of high cultural and natural value overlaps. Subsequently, we identify three potential synergies that could lead to better outcomes for underwater cultural heritage and marine biodiversity: (1) overlap in the definitions of world heritage, Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), and other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs); (2) synergies between shipwreck management and fisheries management; and (3) synergies around sustainable tourism and livelihoods. We then contextualize our argument using a case study in Indonesia involving the governance of the HMAS Perth (I) wreck and its Maritime Conservation Zone. Our discussions are relevant to marine managers and policy makers, as well as practitioners involved in economic activities that benefit from, and can impact, marine biodiversity and underwater cultural heritage, such as fishing and dive tourism.