The Ecosystem-Based Management System: A Formal Tool for the Management of the Marine Environment

The new marine policy of the European Union (Marine Strategy Directive and the Integrated Maritime Policy) respond to the introduction of the concept of Sustainable Development into the management of the marine environment. The understanding and commitment of the application of such a concept to Europe’s Seas is critical for the future and requires new guidelines and tools to assist their implementation. International agreement has recognised the need to establish the management of oceans and coasts based on the Ecosystem approach and its associated principles. To reach this objective, we are proposing a structured system of procedures and tools, here called Ecosystem-Based Management System (EBMS), aimed at implementing the Ecosystem approach at different spatial and administrative scales. This managerial system should be implemented within effective governance structures designed to uphold the modern principles of environmental management.