Argentina is making progress in a key step to expand the protection of its **[natural heritage](https://noticiasambientales.com/medio-ambiente/reserva-la-payunia-esta-cerca-de-ser-candidata-como-patrimonio-natural-de-la-humanidad/)** by formally recognizing the so-called Other Effective Conservation Measures based on areas (OMEC). This mechanism seeks to protect biodiversity outside of traditional protected areas, integrating territories managed by communities, indigenous peoples, and private actors.
The measure is part of an international legal framework that responds to commitments made by the country, such as the National Constitution, the **[General Environmental Law](https://www.argentina.gob.ar/normativa/nacional/ley-25675-79980/texto)**, and the Convention on Biological Diversity. These tools establish principles of conservation, sustainable use, and equitable distribution of **natural resources**.
The new scheme incorporates the most recent guidelines from the **Conferences of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity**, including the 2022 Kunming-Montreal Global Framework, which sets global **conservation** goals. With this decision, Argentina aims to expand the recognized surface area as a space for **ecological** and cultural protection.
Moreover, the recognition of OMECs strengthens the link between **biodiversity** and human rights by considering indigenous peoples and their territories as central actors in environmental protection. This measure is complemented by the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2025-2030, presented at the recent COP 16 in Cali.
## The strategic role of conservation areas
OMECs differ from **national parks** or **natural reserves** as they are spaces where management and governance are the responsibility of various actors, such as local communities, cooperatives, or private institutions. These areas, although not classified as protected areas, play decisive **ecological** functions for in-situ conservation.
Their importance lies in allowing the protection of fragile ecosystems, species at risk, and landscapes with cultural and spiritual values. At the same time, they are a tool to ensure that conservation is not limited to state territories but extends to places of **community value**.
The initiative also promotes integration with the local economy. By **preserving ecosystems**, the provision of environmental services such as water, fertile soil, and fishery resources is ensured. These benefits translate into sustainable opportunities for communities, reducing pressure on nature and strengthening resilience to **climate change**.
## Procedure and authorities
The **Subsecretariat of Environment** will be the implementing authority of the process, while the **National Directorate of Natural Resources** will coordinate the implementation. Each proposal must be notified to the Federal Council for the Environment, ensuring the participation of the provinces.
Additionally, an **Evaluation Commission** will be created, composed of specialists from different technical areas, and if necessary, representatives from universities, NGOs, and scientific institutions. This body will analyze projects, prepare technical reports, and define conflict resolution mechanisms.
This way, the country will be able to report **new conservation areas** internationally, expanding the protected surface area of its territory and integrating terrestrial, aquatic, and marine ecosystems into a participatory and shared management model.
## A step towards the future
The implementation of OMECs in Argentina not only strengthens biodiversity but also promotes sustainable development. According to international experiences, these types of policies **reduce environmental** and health costs, in addition to generating social and economic benefits in the long term.
In the coming months, it is expected that provinces, indigenous communities, and organizations will submit proposals to add their territories to this new conservation category. Thus, Argentina aligns itself with a global trend that sees the protection of **biodiversity** as a collective task.
Conservation areas, far from being isolated spaces, represent a bridge between **nature, culture, and development**. Protecting them means ensuring a more balanced future for future generations.
