These should have the following essential characteristics: 1
Landscape and/or coastal and island seascape of high and/or distinct scenic quality and with significant associated habitats, flora and fauna and associated cultural features;
A balanced interaction between people and nature that has endured over time and still has integrity, or where there is reasonable hope of restoring that integrity;
Unique or traditional land-use patterns, e.g., as evidenced in sustainable agricultural and forestry systems and human settlements that have evolved in balance with their landscape.
The following are desirable characteristics:
Opportunities for recreation and tourism consistent with life style and economic activities;
Unique or traditional social organizations, as evidenced in local customs, livelihoods and beliefs;
Recognition by artists of all kinds and in cultural traditions (now and in the past);
Potential for ecological and/or landscape restoration.
Some category V protected areas act as a buffer around a core of one or more strictly protected areas, and some act as linking habitats between several other protected areas.