Q 61 - How can reliability/accuracy of the spatial data for MPA identification be improved?#

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General answer#

Improving the reliability and accuracy of spatial data for Marine Protected Area (MPA) identification involves a combination of better data collection, integration, validation, and management practices:

  1. Invest in Knowledge Expansion and Data Collection:

  • Filling information gaps: This includes gathering high-quality, accessible data on marine ecosystems and stakeholder interests to inform planning processes accurately.

  • Multisectoral Data: Combine ecological, socioeconomic, and governance data to reflect the multidimensional nature of MPAs.

  • Harmonized Formats: Standardize data formats across sources to ensure compatibility and avoid discrepancies.

  • Historical Data: Include time-series data to assess trends and changes in biodiversity and ecosystem conditions.

  1. Utilize Participatory Mapping: Engaging local communities and stakeholders through participatory mapping can enrich the spatial data pool.

  2. Continuous Monitoring and Data Validation:

  • Temporal Updates: Ensure data is up-to-date to reflect recent ecological changes and human activities.

  • Monitoring Protocols: Develop systematic monitoring protocols to track MPA conditions and enforce spatial boundaries.

  1. Capacity Building and Collaboration

  • Training Programs: Train local stakeholders and researchers in geospatial analysis and data collection techniques.

  • Collaborative Networks: Partner with global initiatives like EMODnet, Copernicus, or national marine spatial data platforms to access validated datasets.

  • Citizen Science: Incorporate community observations and contributions, validated against professional standards.

  1. Policy and Governance Support

  • Data Sharing Agreements: Foster open data sharing among institutions, ensuring transparency and reduced duplication of efforts.

  • Legal Frameworks: Align spatial data collection and processing with international standards like the Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure (MSDI).

  • Ethical Considerations: Address data biases and ensure inclusivity in representing ecosystems and stakeholder interests.

  1. Identifying and Leveraging the Best Available Resources

Identifying, accessing, and integrating data from local, national, European, and international infrastructures—both official and non-official—is crucial for comprehensive and accurate MPA identification.

Answers#

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Operational approaches

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

Practices: Monitoring and evaluation

Operational approaches: (Method) Participatory mapping

References

  • Ecological toolkit (ESE1) for MPAs prioritization and networking. Deliverable – D3.4., under the WP3 of MSP4BIO project (GA n° 101060707).

  • 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

  • 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.