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Multi-objective zoning for aquaculture and biodiversity.
Chiara Venier1, Stefano Menegon2, Hugh P Possingham3
1Institute of Polar Sciences (ISP), National Research Council, via Torino, 155 - 30172 Venice-Mestre, Italy; Institute of Marine Sciences (ISMAR), National Research Council, Arsenale - Tesa #104, Castello 2737/F, 30122 Venice, Italy.
The Science of the Total Environment
|May 1, 2021
Summary
Integrated multi-objective zoning for aquaculture and biodiversity planning offers more efficient strategies than traditional methods. This approach optimizes spatial planning for sustainable Blue Growth and conservation in coastal areas.
Area of Science:
- Marine spatial planning
- Aquaculture sustainability
- Biodiversity conservation
Background:
- Aquaculture is the fastest-growing food sector, but lacks strategic zoning guidance for expansion.
- Conflicts between aquaculture development and biodiversity conservation in coastal zones remain unaddressed.
- Simultaneous optimization for multiple objectives in spatial planning is an untested approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate multi-objective zoning scenarios for aquaculture and biodiversity in Italy's Emilia-Romagna Region.
- To quantify and mitigate conflicts between aquaculture expansion and sensitive coastal environments.
- To provide practical guidance for integrated planning in Blue Growth initiatives.
Main Methods:
- Developed aquaculture profitability and suitability surfaces using multi-criteria analysis.
- Prioritized protected areas for biodiversity considering human impacts.
- Simultaneously planned for aquaculture and biodiversity, minimizing impacts on other maritime activities.
- Introduced a nearest-neighbor analysis for spatial pattern comparison.
- Assessed the value of fine-scale suitability data for planning efficiency.
Main Results:
- Integrated multi-objective zoning proved more efficient than sector-specific strategies.
- A fine-scale suitability model yielded 5% greater efficiency than a simple distance function.
- Identified diminishing returns from detailed suitability analysis in uniform regions.
- Demonstrated improved efficiency and provided practical guidance for integrated planning.
Conclusions:
- Integrated spatial planning optimizing for both aquaculture and biodiversity enhances Blue Growth efficiency.
- The study offers a transferable framework for managing competing objectives in coastal zone management.
- Evidence supports a shift towards holistic, multi-objective approaches for sustainable marine development.
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