In the continuum between command & control (CaC) regulation on the one hand and economic policy instruments on the other, the institutional location of “ protected” areas is often perceived as solidly within the reign of CaC, as a means to safeguard a piece of the earth biosphere as “nature”. In contrast, the human economic sphere is a space where “the market” rules. Buffer zones exist to help separate and shield “nature” from the human economy and yet establish a link or corridor between society and nature. Therefore buffer zones are expected to combine, embody and fulfill policy objectives offering both nature protection and economic functions. The latter may be limited to local livelihood purposes, but may also involve integration into a larger regional, national or international economy. Based on inspiration from development and implementation of Natura 2000 areas and the evolution of National Parks in Scandinavia (Denmark), this paper sets out to explore the theoretical rationale and record of using market based environmental governance in the form of Geographical Indications (GI´s) and organic agriculture certification (OAC), respectively, in buffer zones, to potentially serve the dual purpose of conservation and sustainable livelihoods.