Introduction

What is PAME and why is it important?

Protected areas (PAs) are a cornerstone for the conservation of natural values with associated ecosystem functioning and services and cultural heritage. PAs need to be managed effectively in order to achieve their multiple goals and objectives. The evaluation of Protected Area Management Effectiveness (PAME) is therefore a critical element of adaptive PA management and is defined as 'the assessment of how well protected areas are being managed – primarily the extent to which management is protecting values and achieving goals and objectives' (Hockings et al. 2006). For monitoring and assessing the management effectiveness of PAs, in the last three decades, several methodologies have been developed.

The Protected Area Management Effectiveness (PAME) module of the CPAG Reference Information System, aims to support PA managers and national agencies in improving protected areas management effectiveness to better achieve conservation outcomes.

What is the CPAG PAME Module?

The PAME module provides an overview of the most important PAME assessment tools and the many PAME assessments carried out in Caribbean countries through the Global Database for Protected Area Management Effectiveness (GD-PAME) that is collecting assessment data from the whole globe. The module also provides easy access to key PAME resources as well as PA management plans from the Caribbean countries. In doing so, it supports national ministries and agencies, PA managers and staff, and other stakeholders. Moreover, registered users can contribute additional information and resources to the PAME Module.