Conserving the marine environment of the Basque Country requires strategic management that combines science, governance, and stakeholder engagement. The Basque Autonomous Community (BAC) needed to promote an effective, well-planned Natura 2000 marine network, aligned with the Basque Biodiversity Strategy 2030. Achieving this required an up-to-date diagnosis of environmental status, a clear map of relevant stakeholders, and a robust indicator system to guide decision-making. In addition, there was a growing need to improve knowledge of the deep-sea ecosystems of the Bay of Biscay—still poorly studied and critical for marine biodiversity.
AZTI carried out an integrated programme combining scientific analysis, strategic planning, and sectoral engagement:
Diagnosis of the environmental status of the Basque marine environment, assessing habitats, pressures, and ecological condition.
An updated stakeholder map, identifying 242 key actors linked to marine conservation, including public authorities, scientific centres, NGOs, and socio-economic sectors.
Definition of environmental indicators, reviewing existing ones and prioritising those requiring closer monitoring to track environmental status over time.
Detailed mapping of benthic habitats and ecosystem services, providing a solid basis for planning and managing protected areas.
Design of future research lines in conservation, spatial planning, habitat protection, and sectoral management.
Assessment of current knowledge on deep-sea ecosystems in the Bay of Biscay and definition of a roadmap to advance their study.
This approach combines applied science, strategic vision, and the involvement of all relevant stakeholders.
A comprehensive, up-to-date diagnosis of the state of the Basque marine environment.
Identification of 242 key stakeholders, facilitating coordination and participatory governance.
Mapping of benthic habitats and ecosystem services, an essential tool for managing the Natura 2000 network.
A prioritised system of environmental indicators to monitor marine ecosystem health.
Clearly defined strategic lines of action to conserve species and habitats, identify protected areas, and guide regulatory measures.
Foundations for a research plan on deep-sea ecosystems, strengthening knowledge of one of the most valuable yet least explored areas of the Bay of Biscay.
A key project for advancing towards sustainable, science-based marine management aligned with European conservation objectives.