Prioritisation and designation#
Description#
Based on the results of previous practices — scoping, data management, analysis & diagnosis — priorities are established for conservation, MPA identification, and management actions within the MPA.
This practice supports the identification of critical areas or habitats that require protection and supports their designation, either wholly or partially, as MPAs.
The practice includes the following steps:
Defining priority sets: Utilize stakeholder input, expert knowledge, and ecological criteria to establish conservation and management priorities for the MPA. This involves identifying the most critical areas or habitats for protection based on conservation goals and ecological significance.
Applying conservation algorithms: Use conservation planning software that employs mathematical algorithms to identify priority areas for protection (see Section 4 of D3.4). These tools optimize the selection of protected areas to maximize biodiversity representation and ecological connectivity while considering spatial constraints and conservation targets. The algorithms rely on spatial data layers representing biodiversity features, habitat suitability, ecological processes, and conservation constraints. Additionally, socio-economic data, such as economic value, land tenure, and cultural significance, can be integrated to guide decision-making and ensure a balance between ecological and socio-economic objectives.
Analyzing results: Evaluate the outputs generated by conservation algorithms to identify potential MPA configurations that best align with conservation goals and priority sets. Assess the spatial distribution of selected areas and their ecological significance within the broader marine landscape.
Stakeholder engagement: Actively involve stakeholders, including local communities, scientists, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations, throughout the prioritization process. Gather feedback on proposed MPA designs, address concerns, and ensure transparency in decision-making.
Iterative refinement: Continuously refine the prioritization analysis based on stakeholder feedback, newly available data, and evolving conservation objectives. Regularly update and improve MPA designations to adapt to changing ecological conditions and management needs.
Ecological toolkit (ESE1) for MPAs prioritization and networking. Deliverable – D3.4., under the WP3 of MSP4BIO project (GA n° 101060707)
Integrated Ecological-Socio-Economic Management Framework - ESE Step-by-Step guidance (with test site examples and lessons learned). Deliverable D4.5 under under the WP4 of MSP4BIO project (GA n° 101060707). In preparation: expected July 2025.