Apart from gaps relating to management effectiveness, there is also inadequate understanding of ecosystem services derived from these protected areas, this aspect is of particular importance given that one of the stated goals of the protected area network is valorization of biodiversity. It is also of relevance given the close links between conservation and socioeconomic concerns in the country, as discussed further below. It was noted, however, that authorities face challenges in assimilating and keeping up with the rapid stream of management concepts that constantly emerge in this field (e.g. ecosystem services, adaptation, and resilience-building), particularly given limited (and in many cases, overstretched) human resources - this points to several opportunities for improved, mutually supportive policy-academic partnerships. There are also information/assessment needs relating to conservation designations that fall outside the national park system. For example, the most recent assessment data concerning Important Bird Areas (IBAs) dates back to 2001. Human population in Morocco is presently calculated at approximately 32 million, and this figure is projected to increase to around 41 million by 2050.