The Argentine Government took a crucial step for marine conservation by incorporating the concept of “Other Effective Conservation Measures (OECM)“.
The measure allows for the recognition of existing fishing closures and management areas as valid tools for biodiversity conservation.
What are OECMs and why are they important for marine conservation
OECMs are geographically defined areas that, although not officially Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), achieve sustained results in the protection of biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Their inclusion in national regulations was formalized through the publication of Resolution 446/2025 in the Official Gazette.
It offers a flexible alternative to meet international commitments, such as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, without the need to create new MPAs that could completely restrict productive activities.
The relevance of OECMs for the fishing sector
For the fishing industry, the adoption of OECMs is a strategic advancement. It allows for reconciling sustainable fishing with conservation, as it recognizes the value of restricted effort areas already operating in the Argentine Sea.
These zones, which include permanent and temporary closures, juvenile protection areas, and refuge corridors, contribute to the health of marine ecosystems without halting economic activity.
Thus, Resolution 446/2025 not only strengthens Argentina’s fishery management framework but also highlights the efforts already made by the sector towards environmental conservation. By recognizing these areas, Argentina demonstrates an innovative and balanced approach, aligning productive development with biodiversity goals.
A path towards sustainable development
The new regulation opens the door for public and private actors, including local communities and the fishing sector itself, to promote the recognition of these conservation measures.
This represents an opportunity for sustainable development, as it encourages a more integrated and flexible management of the Argentine Sea, ensuring both the ecosystem’s health and the continuity of a vital economic activity for the country.
The implementation of OECMs is a fundamental step for Argentina to fulfill its international environmental commitments in a realistic manner, recognizing the importance of marine biodiversity and the role of the fishing sector in its protection.
