Socio-ecological systems for marine management and governance

Problem addressed

There is a growing demand for socio-ecological studies that help to better understand the relationship between humans and the marine environment, enabling management approaches that contribute to blue wellbeing. Developing these socio-ecological models requires the collection and integration of data to build indicators that improve understanding of the system and effectively inform management measures.

What we do and how we do it

• We support public administrations in the preparation and review of Marine Spatial Plans (MSPs), ensuring alignment with national and European regulations.
• We provide technical and scientific criteria for defining use zones, protected areas, and ecological corridors.
• We apply spatial analysis tools and use-compatibility models to reduce conflicts between sectors.
• We integrate the ecosystem-based approach into planning, incorporating both human activities and knowledge of ecosystem functioning, including processes, functions, services, and human–ecosystem interactions within the socio-ecological system.
• We deliver technical training and knowledge transfer to strengthen administrative capacity in marine management.
• We produce clear, actionable reports and cartographic products that support decision-making, tendering processes, and environmental permitting.

Key benefits

• Robust marine spatial plans aligned with European and national regulations.
• Reduced sectoral conflicts through objective and transparent criteria.
• Integration of sustainability and conservation into the development of the blue economy.
• Strengthened technical and operational capacity of public administrations.
• The backing of AZTI as a recognised reference in marine spatial planning and in supporting administrations through complex ocean governance processes.