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A Leverage Points Perspective on China’s Governance of Marine Protected Areas: Current State and Ways Forward

Author

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  • Jinpeng Wang

    (School of Law, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
    These authors contributed equally to this work and share first authorship.)

  • Zhengkai Mao

    (School of Law, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
    These authors contributed equally to this work and share first authorship.)

  • Zhijun Zhang

    (Institute of Marine Development, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China)

Abstract

As a key element of spatial governance, marine protected areas (MPAs) have been increasingly established in various countries, with lessons learned from terrestrial environmental protection. Nevertheless, the development of MPAs in China continues to trail behind that of their land-based counterparts. Here, following the leverage points perspective of sustainability interventions, this article presents a systematic analysis of the governance and evolution of China’s MPAs, identifying key areas for improvement. The analysis encompasses the number, effectiveness, legal framework, governance structure, value, and paradigm of MPAs, and highlights the associated governance challenges facing China. Drawing on relevant experiences from the United States, Australia, and the European Union, the article offers valuable insights for informing China’s future MPA strategies. The study concludes that while China has made significant progress in the development of MPAs, further efforts are needed, including paradigm shifts, refinement of the legal system, optimization of governance structures, and enhancement of MPA effectiveness.

Suggested Citation

  • Jinpeng Wang & Zhengkai Mao & Zhijun Zhang, 2025. "A Leverage Points Perspective on China’s Governance of Marine Protected Areas: Current State and Ways Forward," Land, MDPI, vol. 14(2), pages 1-23, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlands:v:14:y:2025:i:2:p:425-:d:1593708
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Yang Yang & Zhe Dong & Bing-Bing Zhou & Yang Liu, 2024. "Smart Growth and Smart Shrinkage: A Comparative Review for Advancing Urban Sustainability," Land, MDPI, vol. 13(5), pages 1-21, May.
    2. Voyer, Michelle & Gladstone, William & Goodall, Heather, 2012. "Methods of social assessment in Marine Protected Area planning: Is public participation enough?," Marine Policy, Elsevier, vol. 36(2), pages 432-439.
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