Multi-objective spatial tools to inform maritime spatial planning in the Adriatic Sea

Area of Science:

• Marine spatial planning
• Environmental management
• Adriatic Sea Basin research

Background:

• Increasing anthropogenic pressures on marine environments necessitate advanced planning tools.
• The Adriatic Sea faces complex challenges from diverse sea uses and nutrient inputs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present multi-objective spatial tools for integrated sea planning and environmental management.
• To assess cumulative impacts, sea use conflicts, nutrient dispersion, and ecosystem service capacity.
• To provide a framework for informed decision-making in the Adriatic Sea Basin.

Main Methods:

• Development of multi-objective spatial tools integrating environmental and socio-economic data.
• Geospatial modeling for cumulative impact assessment and sea use conflict analysis.
• 3-D hydrodynamic modeling of nutrient (nitrogen, phosphorus) dispersion.
• Ecosystem service (ES) capacity assessment using a matrix approach based on seabed habitats.

Main Results:

• Geospatial modeling results were analyzed at country and biogeographic subdivision levels (Northern-Central-Southern Adriatic Sea).
• The study identified key areas of cumulative impacts and potential sea use conflicts.
• Hydrodynamic modeling provided insights into nutrient transport pathways and sources.
• Ecosystem service capacity varied across different seabed habitats.

Conclusions:

• The developed spatial tools offer valuable insights for marine spatial planning and environmental management in the Adriatic Sea.
• Results highlight the need for integrated approaches to address cumulative impacts and sea use conflicts.
• Further development of multi-functional tools is recommended for comprehensive sea planning.