Tools

Ecosystem-based Management

Ecosystem-based management (EBM) is the management of human activities so that ecosystems, their structure, function, composition, are maintained at appropriate temporal and spatial scales. EBM is one of the three principles of integrated management. Ecosystem sustainability and function is of primary importance in EBM. The identification of ecosystem-based management objectives and reference levels will guide the development and implementation of management to achieve sustainable development.

Ecosystem-based management objectives are set for aspects of marine ecosystem structure and function, such as productivity, key species and sensitive habitats. These should not be compromised, as they describe a desired physical, chemical or biological condition of the ecosystem or of one of its constituents and ensure ecosystem integrity. Such objectives may also be expressed as limits, where an ecosystem condition should be avoided. Surpassing these limits will trigger management actions.

Ecosystem-based management objectives could include:

the diversity of ecosystem types;

species diversity;

genetic variability within species;

productivity of directly-impacted species;

productivity of ecologically-dependant species;

ecosystem structure and function; and

water quality.

From: POLICY AND OPERATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT OF ESTUARINE, COASTAL AND MARINE ENVIRONMENTS IN CANADA

Marine Spatial Planning

Marine spatial planning (MSP) is a practical way to create and establish a more rational organization of the use of marine space and the interactions between its uses, to balance demands for development with the need to protect marine ecosystems, and to achieve social and economic objectives in an open and planned way.¹

MSP is about analyzing and allocating parts of three-dimensional marine spaces to specific uses, to achieve ecological, economic, and social objectives that are usually specified through the political process. To be effective, MSP needs to be conducted as a continuous, iterative, and adaptive process and consists of at least three ongoing phases: planning and analysis; implementation; and monitoring and evaluation.²

Comprehensive MSP provides an integrated framework for management that provides a guide for, but does not replace, single-sector planning. For example, MSP can provide important contextual information for marine protected area management or for fisheries management, but does not intend to replace them. When developed properly, marine spatial planning can have significant economic, social, and environmental benefits.¹

From:

1. Dahl, R.; Ehler, C.; Douvere, F. (2009). Marine Spatial Planning, A Step-by-Step Approach toward Ecosystem-based Management. IOC Manuals and Guides, 53. Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO: Paris. 99 pp.

- http://www.vliz.be/imisdocs/publications/153333.pdf

2. Douvere, F. (2008). The Role of Marine Spatial Planning in Implementing Ecosystem-based, Sea Use Management. Marine Policy, Volume 32, Issue 5. Pages 762-771.
- http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/0308597X