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Provide Scientific Knowledge:
Often, one of the difficulties of studying the impacts of anthropogenic activities is the lack of true baseline data. This problem occurs in many, diverse fields such as fish population dynamics to pollution studies. Given time, MPAs could show scientists what an "undisturbed" environment looks like, it is allowing for more effective study of outside areas.
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Provide Educational Opportunities:
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The oceans are an integral part of our planet that all educated citizens should have some understanding of. MPAs provide an opportunity for the general public to learn about the oceans themselves and human impacts thereon. This area is essential, as it provides the political will and impetus for any future efforts at protecting the oceans.
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Improved Recreation and Tourism:
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Areas near MPAs can benefit economically from the people that it will draw. Aesthetic improvements, auxiliary services, related attractions can all work together as the basis for non-consumptive uses of the MPA.
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Environmental Benefits and Ecosystem Services:
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Energy, erosion protection, filtering, nutrient cycling, remediation are all beneficial functions of marine ecosystems that can be supported by MPAs.
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Cultural Heritage:
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Areas of particular cultural value can also be protected by MPAs. Examples include prominent shipwrecks, archaeological sites, the locations of traditional practices, and areas of particular aesthetic beauty.