Mathematical model for the definition and integration of buffer zones for terrestrial tropical protected areas

Protected areas are defined, declared, and managed territories that constitute part of an in-situ conservation strategy of biodiversity and ecosystem services. In Colombia, 142,682 km² of the territory have been declared as 59 PAs, representing the National Natural Park System of Colombia. This involves the most restrictive categories in terms of use, occupation, and possession of land. However, due to the strong pressure generated by the current socio-economic dynamics and transformation engines, the delineation and integration of buffer zones are urgently required to mitigate the disturbances caused by human activity in the territories surrounding PAs.The objective of this research was to propose a mathematical model based on multi-criteria analysis to determine Buffer Zones for tropical terrestrial Protected Areas using 17 Protected Areas from the National Natural Park System of Colombia as a pilot group. Based on 7 criteria and 31 indicators, a four-level hierarchical model was established consisting of principles, criteria, indicators, and decision alternatives (mathematical model). In addition to the indicators of the ecosystem component, environmental management indicators associated with territorial planning were included. This is considered an innovative reference as it establishes a bridge between the conservation and the development strategies.The mathematical model was based on weighting the criteria and indicators of Principle 1, by 9 experts who used two weighting methods: pair comparison and direct combination. This model provides Colombia with a methodological tool that will enable both the definition of Buffer Zones for terrestrial Protected Areas and their incorporation as an environmental requirement of the land use planning. The present research can also be applied to the Protected Areas of other tropical countries that present similar socio-ecosystem dynamics.