Olsen EM, Johnson D, Weaver P, Goñi R, Ribeiro MC, Rabaut M, Macpherson E, Pelletier D, Fonseca L, Katsanevakis S, Zaharia T, (2013). Achieving Ecologically Coherent MPA Networks in Europe: Science Needs and Priorities. Marine Board Position Paper 18. Larkin, KE and McDonough N (Eds.). European Marine Board, Ostend, Belgium.

Abstract: This position paper highlights a set of science needs and priorities that can best contribute to the process of establishing a coherent network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Europe. The paper examines the different phases of MPA development, e.g. design, management and assessment, as a contribution towards the ecosystem-based management of European seas and oceans. The establishment of networks of reserves has been proposed by many scientists and wildlife managers as a way to effectively protect biodiversity (Santos et al., 1995; Allison et al., 1998; Sala et al., 2002; Airamé et al., 2003; Lubchenco et al., 2003; Fernandes et al., 2005; Green et al., 2009). An effective network of MPAs needs to span large geographical distances and encompass a substantial area to protect against catastrophes (Lubchenco et al., 2003) and increasing environmental variability as a result of climate change. The fisheries management benefits of these ecological reserves are also increasingly recognized and include protecting critical feeding, nursery and spawning grounds which in turn help to build and maintain fish populations resulting in improved fishing yields (United Nations General Assembly A/Res/61/105).

Keywords: Marine Protected Areas, network, management, ecosystem, biodiversity, Europe.