State of the world's protected areas at the end of the twentieth century

This document provides an analysis of the global status of protected areas at the close of the twentieth century, synthesizing an extensive dataset compiled and managed by the World Conservation Monitoring Centre. Drawing on internationally recognized definitions and management categories established by the IUCN, the paper outlines the multidimensional purposes and classifications of protected areas, ranging from strict nature reserves to managed resource areas. Detailed statistical reviews chart the historical growth, number, size distribution, and management objectives of protected areas worldwide, highlighting both regional patterns and systemic gaps. Notably, the analysis reveals a robust and expanding global network — encompassing over 30,000 sites and nearly 8.8% of terrestrial surfaces — yet identifies significant underrepresentation of certain biomes and marine environments, disparities in size and management effectiveness, and incomplete data for many regions.