Protected conservation areas face huge challenges globally (see J. E. M. Watson et al. Nature 515, 67–73; 2014). But examples that are effectively funded and managed can be found in Namibia and in the Brazilian Amazon. In our view, these models are so successful that they could be adapted and replicated around the world.

In Namibia, the Ministry of Environment and Tourism awards exclusive tourism concessions to communities that are next to protected areas and have formed conservancies. This attracts millions of dollars in infrastructure investment, empowering communities with economic activity and employment opportunities and creating strong incentives to live with and protect wildlife.

The Amazon Region Protected Areas programme safeguards a staggering 15% of the Brazilian Amazon. Funded through an innovative partnership of public and private donors, it has secured US$215 million to cover costs over the next 25 years. Brazil is gradually stepping up its own contributions to ensure full and permanent funding.