secondary (12-13 years).
Protected spaces
In this activity, you will learn what protected areas are, why they are established, and the functions they serve in the development, care, and conservation of our planet’s environment. We will also explore the different categories of protected areas, with a focus on explaining the concept of national parks.
In this downloadable resource, you will find a PDF with instructions to enhance your teaching. We provide guidance on which platform tool to use, and we offer activities suitable for 12-13-year-old students.
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The importance of protected areas and national parks
Protected areas are natural spaces established to protect the biodiversity and natural, cultural, and landscape resources found within them. These areas are managed by different organizations and are categorized according to their level of protection and use.
National parks are one of the most important and well-known categories of protected areas. These spaces are natural areas that are protected and managed by the state, and are characterized by their high natural, cultural, and scenic value.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of protected areas and national parks, and the need for students to know and be able to locate the national parks in their own country.
The importance of protected areas
Protected areas are essential for the conservation of biodiversity and natural ecosystems. These areas act as refuges for animal and plant species, allowing for their survival and preservation. In addition, protected areas are a key tool for the conservation of natural resources and the protection of the environment.
Protected areas also have a very important cultural and scenic value. These natural areas are home to rural communities and towns that have lived in them for centuries, and have developed unique ways of life and cultures. Additionally, protected areas are a very important tourist resource, attracting millions of visitors each year who want to enjoy their beauty and biodiversity.
The different categories of protected areas
Protected areas are divided into different categories according to their level of protection and use. These categories are:
National parks: are natural areas that are protected and managed by the state, and are characterized by their high natural, cultural, and scenic value.
Nature reserves: are natural areas established to protect animal and plant species, and are managed to allow for their conservation.
Natural monuments: are areas that are protected for their unique geological or paleontological features.
Protected landscapes: are areas that are protected for their cultural, scenic, and natural value.
Regional parks: are areas established to protect a specific landscape or ecosystem, and are managed to allow for their conservation and sustainable use. Bird and other animal protection areas: are areas established to protect specific animal species, and are managed to allow for their conservation.
National parks
National parks are one of the most important and well-known categories of protected areas. These spaces are natural areas that are protected and managed by the state, and are characterized by their high natural, cultural, and scenic value.
National parks are unique spaces that offer a great variety of natural ecosystems and landscapes. In them, a large number of animal and plant species can be found, many of them in danger of extinction. Additionally, they are ideal spaces for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and camping.
It is important for students to learn to value the importance of protected areas and understand the need for their conservation and preservation. Environmental education is key in this sense, as it fosters individual and collective awareness and responsibility towards the environment.
Conclusions
In conclusion, protected areas and national parks are fundamental for the preservation of biodiversity and the protection of the environment. Additionally, they offer a unique opportunity for the enjoyment of nature and the practice of outdoor activities. It is important for students to learn about the importance of these spaces and feel motivated to value and protect them for future generations.