Marine protected areas: Re-thinking their inception

► The 'step zero' is an important research focus in the creation of marine protected areas (MPAs). ► Successful MPA implementation depends largely on this initial step. ► Step zero is about how problems and solutions are conceived and what responses they trigger. ► For MPAs, it involves early discussion about who to involve and how to balance conflicting interests. ► Case studies in Spain and México show that power and politics run through the entire process.