Unpacking equity dimensions of potential ‘Other Effective Area- Based Conservation Measures’ in the
Gambia
Biodiversity is experiencing an unprecedented decline despite decades of global conservation. Amongst
the most prominent challenges we face is how to manage Earth's limited space to ensure coexistence—
meeting human needs while halting biodiversity loss. A critical target, Target 3, also known as '30 x 30', of
the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework from the Convention on Biological Diversity is to
conserve 30% of the world's land and oceans by 2030 through protected areas and other effective areabased
conservation measures (OECMs). Unlike traditional exclusionary conservation methods, OECMs
present a novel approach that puts people at the centre of conservation, emphasising inclusive and
equitable practices. However, the current extent of knowledge of OECMs limits their practical
operationalisation, and there are concerns about how implementation may impact local people when
engaging with global targets. The research will identify areas that may constitute an OECM in the Gambia
and assess equity dimensions—distributive, recognition, and procedural—within communities that may
be affected if they were to come under formal conservation designation. At the national level, I will
conduct semi-structured interviews with environmental policy actors to uncover the knowledge state and
motivations around OECMs. The findings will be useful for evaluating global conservation targets in the
Global South and exploring how OECMs can be applied equitably. Ultimately, my research will help bridge
the gap between global targets and local realities, paving the way for conservation practices that benefit
both people and the planet.