ABSTRACT
The World Resources Institute similarly stressed the importance of the management of resources surrounding protected areas and stated that 'the concept of "buffer zones" or "transition zones" is an essential complement to protected area design'. The 2003 World Parks Congress reiterated these concerns and again called for the integration of protected areas with their surroundings and the implementation of buffer and corridor systems. Buffers were without legal definition, being implemented on an informal basis and lacked a planning methodology to assist in their design. The Integrated Buffer Planning (IBP) methodology, which is highlighted as a recommended approach, does not purport to be perfect or to be a thoroughly tested planning tool. An important aspect of the IBP methodology that is strongly recommended for actioning is the implementation of the IBP through physical development plans, which can provide the main basis for the steering and control of human activities within the areas concerned.
