EB-MSP Assessment Tool
A marine spatial planning assessment tool supporting ecosystem-based management and the sustainable development of maritime sectors.
The EB-MSP Assessment Tool is an innovative resource developed by AZTI, in collaboration with European partners (MarinePlan project; www.marineplan.eu), to embed ecosystem-based management principles into Marine Spatial Planning (MSP). It provides a standardised framework for assessing and continuously improving marine spatial plans, ensuring that both marine biodiversity conservation and the sustainable development of maritime industries are effectively addressed.
By adopting an ecosystem-based approach, the tool supports adaptive management that balances economic, social, and environmental priorities. It aligns with the objectives of the Convention on Biological Diversity and contributes to global conservation efforts, particularly those outlined in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
The EB-MSP Assessment Tool enables planners to develop robust marine spatial plans that ensure the long-term sustainability of maritime activities. It facilitates the integration of emerging sectors—such as offshore renewable energy, aquaculture, and marine tourism—alongside traditional industries like fishing and maritime transport.
Key applications of the EB-MSP Assessment Tool
- Ecosystem-based management: Embedding ecosystem-based management principles across all stages of marine spatial planning.
- Plan evaluation: Conducting thorough assessments of marine spatial plans, identifying areas for improvement and recommending targeted actions.
- Climate change adaptation: Ensuring marine spatial plans account for the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems and maritime industries.
