# Protected areas (WDPA) > Protected areas are clearly defined spaces recognised and managed, through legal or other effective means, for the long-term conservation of nature. The World Database on Protected Areas (WDPA), managed by UNEP-WCMC and IUCN via Protected Planet, is the most comprehensive global dataset of them. Also known as: WDPA, Protected Planet, national parks, forest reserves ## Why does it matter? Commodity production inside national parks, forest reserves or other protected areas is a frequent legality and reputational risk. Under the EUDR, environmental protection and land use rights are part of the relevant legislation of the country of production, and protected-area overlap is a common input to [risk assessment](/glossary/risk-assessment/) alongside deforestation checks. ## How does it work? Plot [polygons](/glossary/polygon/) are intersected with protected-area boundaries. Results record: - whether a plot lies inside, partially inside or within a buffer distance of a protected area; - the area's designation and management category; - the date of designation relative to when farming began. The WDPA is available through Protected Planet, with terms of use that restrict some commercial uses; users should review them. ## Common pitfalls - Using outdated boundaries, since reserves are created, extended or downgraded. - Treating buffer zones and core zones the same. - Automatic exclusion of farmers without checking tenure rights recognised by law. - Ignoring community-conserved areas missing from global datasets. Farmer1st includes protected-area overlap in plot-level risk signals through its [geo and polygons](/services/geo-polygons/) service. ## Frequently asked questions ### Is farming inside a protected area always illegal? Not always. Rules depend on the protected area's category and national law; some allow sustainable use or recognise prior occupants. Overlap is a strong legality risk signal that needs checking against the applicable law. ### Is the WDPA complete? It is the most comprehensive global source, but boundaries can be outdated or missing for some sites. National sources should be checked where available. ## Sources - [Protected Planet, World Database on Protected Areas](https://www.protectedplanet.net/en/thematic-areas/wdpa) - [Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 (EUDR), EUR-Lex](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/1115/oj/eng)