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

Broader “Question”
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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.

3. Other forms of integration These 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.

Answers#

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Operational approaches

ESE3 - Trade-offs method for protections and restoration in MSP#

Practices: [Not Related to Any Practice]
Spatial scales: Transboundary / sea basin National Regional / local
Protection regimes: Strict protection Non-strict protection
Marine zones: Coastal zone Deep sea Offshore zone

Operational approaches: (Method) Trade-off for MPA Design (Method) Trade-off for MPA Design - Conservation and economic development (Method) Trade-off for MPA Design - Short-term and long-term benefits (Method) Trade-off for MPA Design - Exclusives uses and shared uses (Method) Trade-off for MPA Design - Specific stakeholder interests (Method) Trade-off for MPA Design - Local and global interests (Method) Participatory mapping

References

  • Trade-offs method for protection and restoration in MSP (ESE3). Deliverable – D4.3., under the WP4 of MSP4BIO project (GA n° 101060707)).

    This report presents the participatory creation of integrated trade-off scenarios within the MSP4BIO project, aiming to improve the management of marine spaces and safeguard ecosystem services.

    The outcomes of this deliverable provide detailed Guidelines for applying trade-off methodology for MPA design. These scenarios aim to assess and negotiate the consequences of diverse actions and strategies regarding the spatial and strategic management of marine areas. The key element is comprehending how various human activities influence and are influenced by the ecosystem’s services and exploring potential ways for negotiating solutions. The outcomes, particularly the trade-off scenarios, will be integrated into practical tools and frameworks, aiding decision-making processes related to marine resource management.

    This method was designed by the MSP4BIO team members and experts and developed collaboratively with stakeholders to understand the perspectives linked to protected marine areas and potential trade-offs in which specific actions may positively or negatively impact ecosystems and human well-being.

    It was tested by the different test sites of the MSP4BIO project, and the outcomes will be integrated into the ESE 3, more specifically by the Task 4.4 MPAs and MSP Ecological-Socio-Economic integrated management

Practices: Scoping Data collection and presentation Analysis and diagnosis Prioritisation and designation Implementation and management Monitoring and evaluation

Operational approaches: (Method) Strategic guidance

References

  • Strategic Guidance for the Integration of MPA and MSP Processes on Multiple Governance and Ecosystem Levels (Deliverable – D4.4., under the WP4 of MSP4BIO project (GA n° 101060707).