According to various authors, the protection of ANP is a matter of environmental security and of national security. Damage to these territories not only puts environmental integrity and ecological balance at risk, but also threatens social stability, governance, institutions, and economic development itself.

In addition, the ANPs currently contribute, in a little recognized but crucial way, in many aspects of the cultural, social and economic life of the country. Dozens of indigenous peoples are the legitimate owners and custodians of the ANP, which makes these spaces of utmost relevance to Mexico's biocultural legacy; they are territories that provide food security; they are key in the fight against climate change (both for mitigation and adaptation); and they provide livelihoods and subsistence for many communities.

POLEA works promoting the strengthening of the Mexican System of Protected Natural Areas and the scheme of Voluntary Areas Destined for Conservation (ADVC for its Spanish acronym), and also to contribute to improving the capacities of key actors and institutions through the provision of technical assistance.

Providing technical, legal and financial elements to build greater political will and strengthen the capacities of decision-makers regarding the conservation of ANPs and their biodiversity, is in turn an opportunity to contribute to the achievement of the Objectives of Sustainable Development (SDG) and other applicable international frameworks.