WP 1 - Compilation and analysis of existing information In WP1, existing information on spatial management (SM) of marine areas is compiled. Subsequently, a meta-analysis of this information is carried out regarding policy objectives, namely the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of marine spatially managed areas (SMAs): “Learn from the past and present”.
WP2 - Framework for monitoring and evaluation of SMAs WP2 develops a generic and operational framework for the monitoring and evaluation of SMAs across Europe. The framework is centred on science-based guidelines, criteria, concepts and models and ranges from the conceptual to the operational. In an iterative process, the WP2 framework guides the development of practical tools in WP4 and of governance approaches in WP6, and in turn, these tools and approaches are used to further develop the framework and its implementation.
WP3 - Case-studies In WP 3, the generic framework developed in WP 2 is tested in practise and further refined through the application to case studies, in a multi-sectoral and multi-objective approach. The selected case studies represent a range of geographical scales, representative habitats and different human pressures throughout European marine water bodies, encompassing the North Sea, Baltic Sea, Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Black Sea.
WP4 - Development and evaluation of management tools WP 4 deals with the development of a set of management tools for SMAs, consisting of survey methods, models, maps, databases, indicators. Through implementation in actual management settings, the set of management tools is continually improved, evaluated and validated against pre-defined criteria. The outcome will be a consistent set of tools and techniques for management authorities across European waters that can aid in the systematic monitoring and evaluation of the status of SMAs, in successful management interventions, and in the reduction and resolution of possible conflicts between users. Both theoretical and end-user feedback loops between WP 2, 3 and 4 have been established to improve the outcomes of the generic concepts and tool development in an iterative process.
WP5 - Data standards and infrastructure for the Monitoring and Evaluation of SMAs Responsible for data-management and geo-informatics, WP 5 needs to ensure consistency and quality in the handling and management of geospatial and other data and optimal alignment with EU common data standards. WP 5 coordinates and facilitates data and information flow and exchange within the project; it works proactively in close coordination with all the other work packages whilst being informed and guided by partner and end-user feedback received through workshops and other outreach activities.
WP6 - Governance WP 6 deals with the governance of SMAs, which is about achieving a balance between providing for user participation and ensuring the fulfilment of strategic ecosystem conservation objectives. The focus of WP 6 is to develop a ‘tool box’ of structural, process and information incentives that can be employed in SMA governance in various contexts, e.g. for assessing conflicts generated by SMAs and identifying ‘good practice’ in addressing these conflicts. Recognising that the long term effectiveness of SM and thus SMAs depends strongly on interactions between stakeholders, the research involves extensive participation of relevant stakeholder groups both as subjects of research and as actors with whom the research findings will be developed and disseminated. WP 6 interacts with WP’s 2,3,4 and 5, with an emphasis on the case-studies in WP 3.
WP7 - Public Outreach and Dissemination WP 7 synthesizes the results of WPs 1-6 and gives recommendations how to proceed, placing the results in the wider context of the SM policy cycle. Also under the responsibility of WP 7, the results of the MESMA project are disseminated to the EC, the scientific community, stakeholders and science advisory bodies. The main dissemination routes envisaged for knowledge transfer activities to the wider public are e.g. through a website, Google Earth applications and a project flyer.
WP 8 - Management and Coordination WP 8 covers the overarching task of project administration and coordinating activities including project planning, control, evaluation, reporting of the project progress and communication with the European commission.