Q 27 - Are there good practices of MPA-MSP integration in terms of governance?#

Broader “Question”
Related sites

General answer#

To achieve effective integration of MPAs and MSP at the governance level, it is essential to: • Establish a policy framework ensuring alignment of MPA objectives with broader MSP frameworks to avoid conflicts. • Foster coordination and cooperation between authorities managing MPAs and those responsible for MSP. • Develop mechanisms for sectoral collaboration to integrate MPA goals into broader maritime planning frameworks across all sectors. • Facilitate information sharing between MPA management and MSP authorities to ensure decisions are based on consistent and up-to-date data.

Practically, integration between conservation (MPA planning and management) and MSP can be observed on 3 different levels:

1. Conservation is the driver for MSP Some of the examples for this type of integration include those of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and Seychelles Marine Spatial Plan. For example, the Seychelles Marine Spatial Plan (MSP) was developed with the goal of designating 30% of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) under a debt-for-nature swap agreement. Conservation objectives were prioritized, with the MSP serving as a tool to integrate various marine uses and manage potential conflicts, such as those between fishing and tourism. The MPA designations within the MSP include no-take zones, where all extractive activities are prohibited, conservation zones, focused on protecting critical ecosystems like coral reefs and seagrass beds and sustainable-use zones, where regulated fishing and other activities are permitted. To operationalize the plan, a collaborative governance model was established, engaging government agencies, conservation NGOs, and local stakeholders to balance conservation priorities with the socio-economic needs of local communities.

2. Conservation is integrated into MSP across sectors The Belgian MSP promotes conservation as an active component of a balanced, multi-use marine system. Its long-term vision “prioritises naturalness as a basic precondition, and is therefore based primarily on the protection of the most ecologically valuable areas by delimiting marine protected areas with effective management measures.” Conservation is integrated within sectors, such as fisheries, by reducing harmful practices, minimizing pollution risks, and preventing habitat disturbance. However, conservation is particularly prioritized in areas already designated as MPAs, including Natura 2000 sites. In other areas, conservation depends on the sector and the specific regulatory measures in place. In such cases, careful planning and coordination ensure that conservation objectives are met, especially for activities that could harm sensitive ecosystems or MPAs. Similarly, conservation is integrated across sectors in Sweden’s MSP through an ecosystem-based approach that prioritizes sustainable use and biodiversity protection. For example, in the Bothnian Sea MSP, offshore wind farms are strategically located away from sensitive seabed habitats, and fishing zones are adjusted to minimize impacts on spawning areas for herring.

  1. Other forms of integration include incorporating conservation through Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEA), which involve detailed analysis of ecological values and functions, and/or positioning MPAs as a key layer within the MSP. These approaches are common in most EU MSPs.