MPA study published by Defra
A study led by ABPmer on options for taking account of social-economic factors in the planning of marine protected areas (MPA) networks, has been published by Defra in the UK.
The Marine and Coastal Access Act in the UK provides for the establishment of an ecologically coherent network of MPAs that will contribute to the protection of marine ecosystems and biodiversity. The selection of sites in English inshore waters is being taken forward through four Regional MPA Projects led by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee and Natural England. Under the Act, an appropriate authority may have regard to economic or social factors in considering whether it is desirable to designate an area.
To assist Defra and the statutory agencies in developing guidance on socio-economic considerations, the study reviewed a number of international examples of MPA planning alongside a wider review of how socio-economic factors have been taken into account in non-MPA planning initiatives.
A copy of the full report can be downloaded from the Defra website.
