Ecosystem approach

This document reviews the present state of Marine Protected Areas (MPA) within the EMPAFISH project. Using the Driver-Pressure-State-Impacts-Response (DPSIR) framework develops a conceptual model which determines the elements that affect MPAs. This evaluation framework developed has helped to select an appropriate suite of indicators to support an ecosystem approach, an evaluation of the MPAs functioning and policy considerations discussion.

This text covers both theoretical and applied aspects of sustainable management, with a particular emphasis on reviewing concepts and addressing implementation issues in the form of case studies from around the world. Personal experiences from diverse backgrounds are considered and the best practices to facilitate further implementation are discussed.

Today, it is generally accepted that socioeconomic issues play a pivotal role in determining the success of efforts aimed at the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity. Yet there is still a great deal of incertitude as to how and to what extent these issues should be taken into account.

An abridged version of FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Technical Paper no. 520, this document provides a "road map" for developing and implementing better management of sea cucumber fisheries. Also summarized here are the merits and limitations of potential management regulations and actions by the resource manager, and steps required for their implementation.

These Guidelines have been developed in response to requests for further information on the practical adoption and application of the ecosystem approach to fisheries (EAF), with a special focus on its human dimensions.