Protection and sound management of coastal and marine areas are acknowledged as important mechanisms for alleviating poverty in the developing tropics. Tanzania has had considerable practical experience with a diversity of models that rely on private sector partnerships, community co-management regimes, and government-led initiatives for marine protection. 'Blueprint 2050' outlines a vision of what a protected area system could look like in 50 years. It draws on state-of-the-art ecosystem, socioeconomic, financial, and institutional background studies to paint a picture that emphasizes community-based adaptive co-management within a flexible system of eight protected area networks, one of which is the Exclusive Economic Zone. 'Blueprint 2050 is an impressive piece of professional work which addresses the plight of the many communities whose livelihoods depend on Tanzania's marine resources. Environmental conservation, sustainability, efficiency, good governance, and a pro-poor policy stance come out as key issues in pursuit of Tanzania's millennium development goals by these communities.' -- Hon Raphael OS Mollel, Senior Permanent Secretary Vice President's Office, United Republic of Tanzania 'It is my sincere hope that Blueprint 2050 will serve the intended purpose of promoting the devlopment of marine protected areas based on our current policies and legislation.' -- Hon Madam Rahma M Mshangama, Principal Secretary Ministry of Agriculture Natural Resources, Environment and Co-operatives (MANREC), Zanzibar