Addressing the cumulative impacts of multiple human pressures in marine systems, for the sustainable use of the seas

• DOI: 10.3389/focsu.2023.1308125
• Publication Date: 2024-01-04T05:05:41Z
• Authors: Angel Borja; Michael Elliott; Heliana Teixeira; Vanessa Stelzenmü...; Stelios Katsanevakis; Marta Coll; Ibon Galparsoro; Simonetta Fraschetti; Nadia Papadopoulou; Christopher Lynam; Torsten Berg; Jesper H. Andersen; Jacob Carstensen; Miguel C. Leal; María C. Uyarra
• Keywords: Toolbox; Comparability; Harmonization; Water Framework Directive; Cumulative effects

Human activities at sea have increased, causing subsequent degradation of ocean health and affecting ecosystem services societal goods benefits. Climate change further exacerbates the cumulative effects these their associated pressures. Hence, effective management multiple is imperative to ensure sustainable use ocean. In response challenges, we developed a comprehensive conceptual framework model within an ecosystem-based approach. This encompasses versatile toolbox designed assess pressures environmental status under European Marine Strategy Framework Directive, in compliance with Birds Habitats Directives requirements need secure maintenance provision Although examples current discussion, consider that there are similar challenges many seas worldwide so recommendations here widely applicable. Our aim facilitate validation, harmonization, demonstration this across regional several countries, different scales, from local regional, including overseas territories. approach aims foster comparability assessments. We anticipate proposed methodologies will serve as foundational benchmark against which progress can be assessed line expectations policy requirements. Additionally, work prepares groundwork for forthcoming evaluation suitability, robustness, applicability solutions tools, thereby assisting managers achieving Good Environmental Status (GES), both wider global contexts, address common worldwide.