Enhancing Marine Protected Areas as Nature Based Solutions for adaptation to climate change: from local actions to Mediterranean basin strategy

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B EURO Mediterranean (EURO MED)

Date of latest update: 2025-10-02

Description

Description (FR):

Le bassin Méditerranée est considéré comme un haut lieu du changement climatique (CC), dont les effets se superposent à d’autres changements environnementaux causés par l’activité humaine comme la surpêche, la perte d'habitat et la pollution. Tout cela affecte les écosystèmes marins méditerranéens et les personnes dont les moyens de subsistance en dépendent. Afin de contribuer à inverser cette tendance à la dégradation, MPA4Change cherche à renforcer l'efficacité des aires marines protégées (AMP) et de la restauration comme solutions fondées sur la nature clef pour l'adaptation au changement climatique en déployant une approche multi-niveaux, allant de l’action locale des AMP aux stratégies méditerranéennes, afin d'assurer leur durabilité sur le long terme. Pour ce faire, MPA4Change travaillera sur 3 axes principaux : 1) promouvoir et affiner les outils préalablement testés d'évaluation des risques, de suivi, de partage des données, de restauration, de science citoyenne, d'approches participatives et de définition de plans d'action pour l’adaptation, de communication ; 2) encourager le dialogue politique et la coordination entre stratégies européennes, méditerranéennes et mondiales de PSM/GIZC comme la CGPM/FAO, le PAM/PNUE, CAR/ASP, UpM ; et 3) établir une équipe d'experts pour rendre pleinement opérationnelle la mise en œuvre des politiques et outils d’adaptation et de mitigation du CC et en assurer la viabilité à long terme. Le résultat final attendu de MPA4Change est le renforcement de la résilience des zones côtières méditerranéennes afin de garantir la conservation et la valorisation durable des écosystèmes marins. Pleinement aligné sur les défis du SO2.4 d'Interreg Euro-MED, MPA4Change augmentera la capacité d'adaptation au CC en i) renforçant l'efficacité des AMP et de la restauration, ii) améliorant la coordination et la coopération des parties prenantes au-delà des frontières et iii) accroissant la sensibilisation au CC et la culture environnementale.

Description (EN):

The Mediterranean Sea is considered a hot spot for climate change. The impacts of climate change are interacting with other environmental changes caused by human activities (e.g. overfishing, habitat loss and pollution). As a result, Mediterranean marine ecosystems and human livelihoods that rely on them are being affected. To contribute to reverse this severe degradation trend, MPA4Change will look to enhance the effectiveness of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and restoration as key Nature Based Solution for climate change adaptation by deploying a multi-level approach, from local MPA actions to Mediterranean strategies, in view to ensure its long-term sustainability and capacity. To do so MPA4Change will work on 3 main axis: 1) promote and fine-tune consolidated tools for risk assessment, monitoring, data sharing, restoration, citizen science, participatory approaches and defining adaptation action plans, communication, 2) support the Policy dialogue and coordinate with EU, Mediterranean and Global ICZM/MSP Strategies (e.g., FAO/GFCM, UNEP/MPA, RAC/SPA, UfM) and 3) develop a Roster of experts to fully operationalise the implementation of policies and tools ensuring the long-term sustainability and capacity for adaptation and mitigation to climate change. The final expected main outcome of MPA4Change is to enhance the resilience of Mediterranean coastal areas in view to support the good environmental status and sustainable use of marine ecosystems. Fully aligned with Interreg Euro-MED specific objective 2.4’s challenges, MPA4Change will increase the capacity to adapt to climate change by i) enhancing the effectiveness of MPAs and restoration, ii) improving the coordination and cooperation of stakeholders across borders to tackle them and iii) reinforcing raise awareness and environmental culture to climate change.

Actual Achievements (EN):

Since its approval at the end of 2023, the MPA4Change project has made substantial progress toward enhancing Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) as nature-based solutions for climate change adaptation. The project launched with a productive Kick-off Meeting (KoM) in January 2024 in Barcelona, where partners set the groundwork for the project and established a collaborative framework for future actions. The KoM allowed partners to clarify key project objectives and roles, responsibilities, and upcoming activities, providing a clear roadmap for the project’s implementation. The project has focused on the fine-tuning and adaptation of existing tool-kits to support the adoption of adaptation measures in MPA face to climate change, mainly based on those developed in the previous project MPAEngage but adding as well tools from other EU projects, for wider use across Mediterranean MPAs. These tools, including those for vulnerability assessments, ecological monitoring, restoration protocols, participatory approaches, development of adaptation action plans and communication materials have been identified and optimized in collaboration with key partners. A key part of this was the development of training materials, such as manuals and video tutorials, to support end users in the independent implementation of these tools. This process ensures their adaptability to different regional contexts, strengthening their potential for broader application. One of the highlights of this period was the starting of trainings with the support of online tools and meetings plus acapacity-building workshop held in Cyprus in May 2024, where the MPA4Change consortium transferred critical monitoring and citizen science tools to partners, including MPA managers and local authorities. The training introduced partners and local stakeholders to the use of monitoring protocols such as Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK), citizen science, species-specific protocols, and temperature monitoring. These efforts aim to equip MPAs with the tools necessary to monitor and respond to climate change impacts effectively, highlighting how these tools can be integrated into day-to-day management and long-term climate resilience strategies. Significant progress was made in communication and outreach activities, which are essential for fostering community engagement and policy advocacy. The project launched its communication channels, including a website and social media platforms, ensuring visibility and information sharing among a wider audience. A structured communication strategy was developed to promote the project's tools and achievements, aiming to engage both local stakeholders and the broader Mediterranean region. In addition, efforts have been focused on mapping potential MPA “takers” (a list of potential MPAs and stakeholders) who can adopt the project's tools, further expanding the impact of MPA4Change across the Mediterranean. The project maintained continuous coordination and quality assurance through regular online meetings: a monthly “Coordination Team” meeting, and specific WP leaders meetings when needed, besides the day-to-day communication between partners. Close collaboration has allowed for the effective exchange of knowledge and the development of synergies, particularly during the training and tool adaptation processes. Moreover, the consortium has also initiated efforts to assess its carbon footprint in line with its sustainability goals. Using the ZeroCO2Med calculator, the project is tracking the carbon footprint of its activities, in order to measure its impact and implement mitigation strategies where necessary. In conclusion, the MPA4Change project has successfully laid a solid foundation for achieving its objectives by refining critical tools, building capacities, enhancing communication strategies, and establishing strong cooperation among partners. The MPA4Change project has made significant progress during its second reporting period, focusing on scientific monitoring, capacity-building, stakeholder engagement, and policy advocacy across Mediterranean Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). One of the key areas of advancement has been the fine-tuning of the toolkits developed to enhance the effectiveness of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS), mainly the MPAs to face the climate emergency. . The toolkits support the MPAs across the entire process ensuring that MPAs have access to standardized, science-based methodologies for climate adaptation. During this period capacity building workshops on the fine tuned toolkits to equip MPA managers have been organized during this period: i) monitoring protocols to track ecological climate impacts (temperature monitoring, benthic health assessments, and climate fish indicator surveysIi) vulnerability assessment methodologies, iii) GIS tools and iv) citizen science program, , This trainings enhanced the ability of MPAs implementing the tools to track climate impacts and start the design of adaptive management strategies. The project is preparing for its 2025 blended learning training program, combining online courses with practical field sessions in multiple MPAs to ensure effective knowledge transfer. It is worth noting that the Citizen Science training program saw significant progress, engaging eight diving centers and 15 instructors in climate-sensitive fish species monitoring, particularly within Atlantic MPAs. This initiative strengthens public participation in conservation and provides MPAs with valuable long-term ecological data. Besides, a major milestone in capacity building was the Vulnerability Assessment (VA) Training, which included online sessions and an intensive in-person workshop in Faro, Portugal. Participants worked with real datasets, conducted vulnerability assessments, and refined methodologies to improve their accuracy and applicability. The integration of case studies from previous adaptation projects further supported the practical application of MPA4Change tools in real-world conservation efforts. Beyond technical advancements, the project strengthened policy engagement and stakeholder collaboration. A key policy meeting in Faro brought together MPA managers and decision-makers to explore the practical application of MPA4Change tools in daily marine governance. The project further expanded its policy influence through collaboration with existing Mediterranean initiatives, integrating some of MPA4Change toolkits into wider networks of MPAs. Participation in international and national conferences, including the 5th International Conference on Climate Change in Zadar and the Croatian Nature Protection Managers' Conference, further reinforced knowledge exchange. A survey using Mentimeter helped assess opportunities for collaboration and future implementation strategies. A structured policy advocacy strategy was developed, including a policy roadmap, key messages, and a comprehensive event and stakeholder database to support long-term engagement with decision-makers. Policy discussions were further strengthened through participation in high-level EU and Mediterranean conservation meetings, ensuring that MPA4Change outputs contribute to broader marine governance frameworks. The project also prioritized public outreach and communication to maximize awareness and engagement. In addition, diving protocols and promotional materials were developed to encourage recreational divers to contribute climate monitoring data, fostering citizen science engagement in MPAs. To ensure long-term impact and sustainability, the project advanced in the design of the “100 MPA MedAlliance”. This initiative builds on three main pillars: - Ready to use toolkits to guide MPAs in deploying adaptation action plans - Dedicated long-term assistance mechanism with a roster of experts - Policy & advocacy actions to enhance the role of MPAs to effectively face the climate change crisis Moving forward, MPA4Change will focus on consolidating knowledge, expanding the implementation of tools, and ensuring long-term policy integration for Mediterranean MPAs through the “100 MPA MedAlliance”. Through continuous collaboration and engagement, the project is well-positioned to strengthen marine conservation efforts and enhance resilience to climate change, making MPAs key actors in Nature-Based Solutions for climate adaptation across the region.

Project outputs: MPA4Change Transfer Programme (toolkits and online training)(FR)
MPA4Change Transfer Programme (toolkits and online training)(EN)
Guidelines for data sharing to databases of Data and Knowledge Platforms(FR)
Guidelines for data sharing to databases of Data and Knowledge Platforms(EN)
Action plans integrating CC adaptation and resilience measures in existing strategies(FR)
Action plans integrating CC adaptation and resilience measures in existing strategies(EN)
MP4Change transnational partnership(FR)
MP4Change transnational partnership(EN)
MPA4Change Roster of experts and experienced staff(EN)
MPA4Change Roster of experts and experienced staff(FR)

Thematic information

Coastal management and maritime issues Climate change and biodiversity

Priority: (VI-B_EM_2) Greener MED

Priority specific objective: RSO2.4. Promoting climate change adaptation and disaster risk prevention and resilience, taking into account eco-system based approaches

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO2 A greener, low-carbon transitioning towards a net zero carbon economy and resilient Europe by promoting clean and fair energy transition, green and blue investment, the circular economy, climate change mitigation and adaptation, risk prevention and management, and sustainable urban mobility

Type of intervention: 060 Adaptation to climate change measures and prevention and management of climate related risks: others, e.g. storms and drought (including awareness raising, civil protection and disaster management systems, infrastructures and ecosystem based approaches)

Partners (10)

Lead Partner: Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999991722

Partner’s ID if not PIC: Q2818002D | ES105000045 | - (EN), - (FR)

Department: Institut de Ciències del Mar - Maritime Science Institute

Address: Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta , 08003 Barcelona, Spain

Department address: Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta , 08003 Barcelona, Spain

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.icm.csic.es/en

Total budget: EUR 239 045.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 191 236.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 47 809.00

Contractors:

Name: LIDL SUPERMERCADOS, S.A.U.
VAT registration or tax identification number: A60195278
Name: PROMOTORA DE CROASANTERIES SLU
VAT registration or tax identification number: B59370114
Name: BARRINAR CAP A LA SOSTENIBILIT
VAT registration or tax identification number: G64106347
Name: B. LINK BARCELONA
VAT registration or tax identification number: B66709304
Name: COLLECTIVE
VAT registration or tax identification number: 79892760539
Name: B. LINK BARCELONA
VAT registration or tax identification number: B66709304
Name: ONDEUEV COMUNICACIO SL
VAT registration or tax identification number: B65013617

AP Marine Environmental Consultancy Ltd

Name: AP Marine Environmental Consultancy Ltd

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 997941724

Partner’s ID if not PIC: CY10137638P | CY220000005 | - (EN), - (FR)

Address: Acropoleos 2, Aglantzia, 2101 Nicosia, Cyprus

Department address: Acropoleos 2, Aglantzia, 2101 Nicosia, Cyprus

Legal status: private

Organisation type: SME

Website: https://www.apmarine.com.cy/

Total budget: EUR 76 294.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 61 035.20

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 15 258.80

Contractors:

Name: Stalworth Pro Ltd
VAT registration or tax identification number: 10335775A
Name: Marianna Charalampous
VAT registration or tax identification number: 988189
Name: Nereus Quest Ltd
VAT registration or tax identification number: 60092909X

Universidade do Algarve

Name: Universidade do Algarve

Department: CCMAR - Centro de Ciências do Mar (Maritime Science Centre)

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999863003

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 505387271 | PT120000010 | - (EN), - (FR)

Address: Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal

Department address: Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.ualg.pt

Total budget: EUR 87 393.25

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 69 914.60

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 17 478.65

Contractors:

Name: CCMar
VAT registration or tax identification number: 506197760
Name: Galvão, Nunes, Tavares & Assoc
VAT registration or tax identification number: 502215399

Föderation der Natur- und Nationalparke Europas (Föderation EUROPARC) e.V.

Name: Föderation der Natur- und Nationalparke Europas (Föderation EUROPARC) e.V.

Department: The EUROPARC Federation – Consorci Parc de Collserola

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 950309971

Partner’s ID if not PIC: N2763822J | ES2N0000001 | - (EN), - (FR)

Address: Carretera de l´Església, 08017 Barcelona, Spain

Department address: Carretera de l´Església, 08017 Barcelona, Spain

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.europarc.org

Total budget: EUR 138 487.50

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 110 790.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 27 697.50

Contractors:

Name: Oceanogami OU
VAT registration or tax identification number: EE102384899
Name: DF Economistes Auditors, S.L.
VAT registration or tax identification number: ES B59736892

Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche

Name: Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche

Department: Institute for Biological Resources and Marine Biotechnologies (Ancona) Institute of Marine Sciences (Bologna)

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999979500

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 2118311006 | IT120000043 | - (EN), - (FR)

Address: Piazzale Aldo Moro, 00185 Roma, Italy

Department address: Largo Fiera della Pesca, 60125 Ancona, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://www.cnr.it/

Total budget: EUR 141 637.50

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 113 310.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 28 327.50

DAN Europe Foundation

Name: DAN Europe Foundation

Department: EU Projects

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 983688156

Partner’s ID if not PIC: MT005/37 | MT220000003 | - (EN), - (FR)

Address: Triq Xatt, XBX1431 Ta’Xbiex, Malta

Department address: Triq Xatt, XBX1431 Ta’Xbiex, Malta

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.daneurope.org

Total budget: EUR 78 875.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 63 100.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 15 775.00

Contractors:

Name: Fabio Figurella
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT02733630418
Name: GCS Assurance Malta Limited
VAT registration or tax identification number: MT24176515
Name: WebinarPro S.r.l.
VAT registration or tax identification number: IT09288500961

Universidade de Vigo

Name: Universidade de Vigo

Department: Future Oceans Lab

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999630494

Partner’s ID if not PIC: Q8650002B | ES590000552 | - (EN), - (FR)

Address: Campus Universitario , 36310 Vigo, Spain

Department address: Campus Universitario, 36310 Vigo, Spain

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.uvigo.gal

Total budget: EUR 90 412.50

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 72 330.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 18 082.50

Contractors:

Name: BAKER TILLY AUDITORES SLP
VAT registration or tax identification number: B86300811
Name: Jose Miguel Parra Castiñeira
VAT registration or tax identification number: 36093862P

Javna ustanova Nacionalni park Brijuni

Name: Javna ustanova Nacionalni park Brijuni

Department: Department of Expert Protection, Maintenance, Preservation and usage of the National Park

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 891525837

Partner’s ID if not PIC: HR79193158584 | HR120000018 | - (EN), - (FR)

Address: Brijuni, 52100 Pula, Croatia

Department address: Brionska , 52212 Fažana, Croatia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: National public authority

Website: https://www.np-brijuni.hr/en

Total budget: EUR 66 953.75

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 53 563.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 13 390.75

Contractors:

Name: AGD reklame
VAT registration or tax identification number: 20829194234
Name: TISKARA NOVA
VAT registration or tax identification number: 69421856733

Consorzio di Gestione Area Marina Protetta Portofino

Name: Consorzio di Gestione Area Marina Protetta Portofino

Department: Operational/administrative Office

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 941582008

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 01147140998 | IT120000047 | - (EN), - (FR)

Address: Via alla penisola, 16038 Portofino – Genova , Italy

Department address: Viale Rainusso, 16038 Santa Margherita Ligure – Genova , Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: National public authority

Website: https://www.portofinoamp.it/

Total budget: EUR 80 337.50

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 64 270.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 16 067.50

Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche

Name: Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche

Department: Institute for Biological Resources and Marine Biotechnologies (Ancona) Institute of Marine Sciences (Bologna)

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999979500

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 2118311006 | IT120000043 | - (FR), - (EN)

Address: Piazzale Aldo Moro, 00185 Roma, Italy

Department address: Largo Fiera della Pesca, 60125 Ancona, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://www.cnr.it/

Total budget: EUR 141 637.50

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 113 310.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 28 327.50

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

AP Marine Environmental Consultancy Ltd

Enhancing Marine Protected Areas as Nature Based Solutions for adaptation to climate change: from local actions to Mediterranean basin strategy

Partners and Projects info

Universidade do Algarve

Enhancing Marine Protected Areas as Nature Based Solutions for adaptation to climate change: from local actions to Mediterranean basin strategy

Partners and Projects info

Federation of Nature and National Parks of Europe (EUROPARC Federation)

Enhancing Marine Protected Areas as Nature Based Solutions for adaptation to climate change: from local actions to Mediterranean basin strategy

Partners and Projects info

National Research Council

Enhancing Marine Protected Areas as Nature Based Solutions for adaptation to climate change: from local actions to Mediterranean basin strategy

Partners and Projects info

DAN Europe Foundation

Enhancing Marine Protected Areas as Nature Based Solutions for adaptation to climate change: from local actions to Mediterranean basin strategy

Partners and Projects info

Universidade de Vigo

Enhancing Marine Protected Areas as Nature Based Solutions for adaptation to climate change: from local actions to Mediterranean basin strategy

Partners and Projects info

Public Institution Brijuni National Park

Enhancing Marine Protected Areas as Nature Based Solutions for adaptation to climate change: from local actions to Mediterranean basin strategy

Partners and Projects info

Consortium of management of Portofino Marine Protected Area

Enhancing Marine Protected Areas as Nature Based Solutions for adaptation to climate change: from local actions to Mediterranean basin strategy

Partners and Projects info

Spanish Research Council - Maritime Science Institute

Enhancing Marine Protected Areas as Nature Based Solutions for adaptation to climate change: from local actions to Mediterranean basin strategy

Partners and Projects info

Italian National Research Council

Enhancing Marine Protected Areas as Nature Based Solutions for adaptation to climate change: from local actions to Mediterranean basin strategy

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (FR): Transferring and Mainstreaming Ecosystem Approach to Change the way Marine Protected Areas manage Climate Change and biodiversity Restoration

Project name (EN): Enhancing Marine Protected Areas as Nature Based Solutions for adaptation to climate change: from local actions to Mediterranean basin strategy

Project acronym: MPA4Change

Project ID: Euro-MED0200736

Project start date: 2024-01-01

Project end date: 2026-03-31

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

MPA-ENGAGE: Engaging Mediterranean key actors in Ecosystem Approach to manage Marine Protected Area to face Climate Change (programme Interreg MED 2014-2020), 2019-2022.
Climate Change is dramatically affecting the Mediterranean Sea, which is warning at a rate 20% faster than the world’s average. MPAs, despite the nature-based solution they offer to support efforts towards climate change adaptation and mitigation, are the first ones to feel the climate change effects, several Mediterranean MPAs already facing major biodiversity and functional alterations due to climate change, the others likely facing them in the next few decades. There is, therefore, an urgency to mitigate these risks and to consider adaptation options in partnership with local communities, decision-makers, civil society organizations research bodies, and other socio-economic actors at local, national, and regional level.
MPA-ENGAGE's objective was to promote the role of MPAs as nature-based solutions to adapt and mitigate the ongoing climate change effects in the Mediterranean Sea. Through a participatory approach (quintuple helix - MPAs, socio-eco actors, local/regional authorities, scientists and citizens), MPA-ENGAGE monitored the climate change impacts, elaborated vulnerability assessments plans and developed climate change adaptation actions plans in 7 Marine Protected Areas located in different Mediterranean countries: Albania, Croatia, France, Greece, Italy, and Spain. It engaged recreational divers and small-scale fishery actors in citizen science activities. Through trainings, twinnings and data sharing activities, it transferred its operational know-how to key coastal actors to develop a strong and resilient strategy. MPA-ENGAGE also promoted a Med Policy Dialogue among an assembly of associates (scientists, MPAs, & Networks/regions), with the support of organisations such as MEDPAN, RAC-SPA,UNEP/MAP, FAO; GFCM, CPMR-ICM, WWF and UfM.
https://mpa-engage.interreg-med.eu/ (FR), MPA-ENGAGE: Engaging Mediterranean key actors in Ecosystem Approach to manage Marine Protected Area to face Climate Change (programme Interreg MED 2014-2020), 2019-2022.
Climate Change is dramatically affecting the Mediterranean Sea, which is warning at a rate 20% faster than the world’s average. MPAs, despite the nature-based solution they offer to support efforts towards climate change adaptation and mitigation, are the first ones to feel the climate change effects, several Mediterranean MPAs already facing major biodiversity and functional alterations due to climate change, the others likely facing them in the next few decades. There is, therefore, an urgency to mitigate these risks and to consider adaptation options in partnership with local communities, decision-makers, civil society organizations research bodies, and other socio-economic actors at local, national, and regional level.
MPA-ENGAGE's objective was to promote the role of MPAs as nature-based solutions to adapt and mitigate the ongoing climate change effects in the Mediterranean Sea. Through a participatory approach (quintuple helix - MPAs, socio-eco actors, local/regional authorities, scientists and citizens), MPA-ENGAGE monitored the climate change impacts, elaborated vulnerability assessments plans and developed climate change adaptation actions plans in 7 Marine Protected Areas located in different Mediterranean countries: Albania, Croatia, France, Greece, Italy, and Spain. It engaged recreational divers and small-scale fishery actors in citizen science activities. Through trainings, twinnings and data sharing activities, it transferred its operational know-how to key coastal actors to develop a strong and resilient strategy. MPA-ENGAGE also promoted a Med Policy Dialogue among an assembly of associates (scientists, MPAs, & Networks/regions), with the support of organisations such as MEDPAN, RAC-SPA,UNEP/MAP, FAO; GFCM, CPMR-ICM, WWF and UfM.
https://mpa-engage.interreg-med.eu/ (EN) | MPA4Change partners CSIC (as the LP), PORTOFINO (PP), BRIJUNI (PP), UVIGO (PP), DAN (PP) and CNR (as a AP) were involved in MPA-ENGAGE and will bring the knowledge and experience learnt throughout the project, especially regarding participatory approach, stakeholder engagement and awareness-raising (citizens, MPAs, public authorities), training (climate change training centre established in BRIJUNI in synergy with MPA-Networks) and even communication (successful use of social networks). The MPA-ENGAGE stakeholder database will also be used to build MPA4Change's.
Furthermore, the following deliverables will be capitalised, especially for the Transfer programme (OI 1.1):
- D3.7.8 Joint Plan for Climate Change Adaptation in Mediterranean MPAs: methodological approach & priority actions
- D3.4.8 Joint Monitoring Plan in the MPAs
- D3.3.8 Joint Vulnerability Assessment Plans
- D3.6.8 Deploying the Quintuple Helix Participatory Approach in Mediterranean MPAs for effective decision-making against Climate Change: showcases & essential elements for success
- D4.4.1 Monitoring protocols for Divers
- D4.6.1 Guidelines on how to develop a local Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Plan
Other outputs of MPA-ENGAGE that will be used for MPA4Change are the T-MEDNet network devoted to track climate change effects in Mediterranean coastal habitats (www.t-mednet.org) and the "Observadores del Mar" marine citizen science platform (www.observadoresdelmar.es), two Knowledge and Data Platforms that will be capitalised for the Guidelines on data sharing (OI 1.2). (EN), MPA4Change partners CSIC (as the LP), PORTOFINO (PP), BRIJUNI (PP), UVIGO (PP), DAN (PP) and CNR (as a AP) were involved in MPA-ENGAGE and will bring the knowledge and experience learnt throughout the project, especially regarding participatory approach, stakeholder engagement and awareness-raising (citizens, MPAs, public authorities), training (climate change training centre established in BRIJUNI in synergy with MPA-Networks) and even communication (successful use of social networks). The MPA-ENGAGE stakeholder database will also be used to build MPA4Change's.
Furthermore, the following deliverables will be capitalised, especially for the Transfer programme (OI 1.1):
- D3.7.8 Joint Plan for Climate Change Adaptation in Mediterranean MPAs: methodological approach & priority actions
- D3.4.8 Joint Monitoring Plan in the MPAs
- D3.3.8 Joint Vulnerability Assessment Plans
- D3.6.8 Deploying the Quintuple Helix Participatory Approach in Mediterranean MPAs for effective decision-making against Climate Change: showcases & essential elements for success
- D4.4.1 Monitoring protocols for Divers
- D4.6.1 Guidelines on how to develop a local Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Plan
Other outputs of MPA-ENGAGE that will be used for MPA4Change are the T-MEDNet network devoted to track climate change effects in Mediterranean coastal habitats (www.t-mednet.org) and the "Observadores del Mar" marine citizen science platform (www.observadoresdelmar.es), two Knowledge and Data Platforms that will be capitalised for the Guidelines on data sharing (OI 1.2). (FR), AMAre PLUS: Action for Marine Protected Areas PLUS (programme Interreg MED 2014-2020), 2021-2022.
AMAre PLUS is the continuation of the AMAre project. In order to to make the Management Plan of Mediterranean MPAs more effective and coherent, it capitalises and transfers AMAre's 3 main outputs: the Spatial Geoportal, the Monitoring Protocols on vulnerable habitats, and the Best Practices as a summary of recommendations arisen from AMAre.
The objectives of the AMAre PLUS are 1) to develop shared methodologies and geospatial tools for multiple stressors assessment, coordinated environmental monitoring, multi criteria analyses and stakeholders engagement; 2) to translate these guidelines into concrete pilot actions and coordinated strategies in selected MPAs to solve hot spots of conflicts affecting marine biodiversity and the services it provides. Transnational cooperation and regulations, development of coordinated best practices to deal with present and future drivers of changes in biodiversity and ecosystem services, coordinated monitoring, data access to share information and concrete stakeholder and users’ involvement are the expected results. The final aim is to scale up strategies and recommendations at transnational level adopting an ecosystem-based approach to MSP considering the goals of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) across MPAs. MPA managers, public institutions, and key stakeholders working within the MPAs will benefit from the results of the project.
https://amare.interreg-med.eu/ (FR), AMAre PLUS: Action for Marine Protected Areas PLUS (programme Interreg MED 2014-2020), 2021-2022.
AMAre PLUS is the continuation of the AMAre project. In order to to make the Management Plan of Mediterranean MPAs more effective and coherent, it capitalises and transfers AMAre's 3 main outputs: the Spatial Geoportal, the Monitoring Protocols on vulnerable habitats, and the Best Practices as a summary of recommendations arisen from AMAre.
The objectives of the AMAre PLUS are 1) to develop shared methodologies and geospatial tools for multiple stressors assessment, coordinated environmental monitoring, multi criteria analyses and stakeholders engagement; 2) to translate these guidelines into concrete pilot actions and coordinated strategies in selected MPAs to solve hot spots of conflicts affecting marine biodiversity and the services it provides. Transnational cooperation and regulations, development of coordinated best practices to deal with present and future drivers of changes in biodiversity and ecosystem services, coordinated monitoring, data access to share information and concrete stakeholder and users’ involvement are the expected results. The final aim is to scale up strategies and recommendations at transnational level adopting an ecosystem-based approach to MSP considering the goals of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) across MPAs. MPA managers, public institutions, and key stakeholders working within the MPAs will benefit from the results of the project.
https://amare.interreg-med.eu/ (EN) | Two MPA4Change partners participated to AMAre PLUS: CSIC as a partner and CNR as an associated partner. Both will bring their experience in transferring outputs and involving MPAs to the project, especially the CSIC. The AMAre PLUS stakeholder database will also be used to build MPA4Change's.
Furthermore, the following AMAre PLUS outputs will be capitalised for the Transfer programme (OI 1.1) and the Guidelines on data sharing (OI 1.2):
- D3.2.1 Spatial geoportal, also called "AMAre Geoportal" in the application form (https://amare.interreg-med.eu/toolbox/geoportal)
- D3.3.1 Monitoring protocols
- D3.4.1 Database on Oceanographic products and indicators
The AMAre PLUS Geoportal is a Spatial Data Infrastructure at MPA scale, inspired by European standards and built on MPAs manager’s needs. It has a dedicated web application reachable through the link previously mentioned and a Geodatabase storing all the spatial and non-spatial information at MPA scale for each MPA involved in the AMAre and AMAre PLUS projects. This Geopportal will be further developed through MPA4Change implementation to act an inventory portal of databases monitoring CC and R in the Mediterranean. (FR), Two MPA4Change partners participated to AMAre PLUS: CSIC as a partner and CNR as an associated partner. Both will bring their experience in transferring outputs and involving MPAs to the project, especially the CSIC. The AMAre PLUS stakeholder database will also be used to build MPA4Change's.
Furthermore, the following AMAre PLUS outputs will be capitalised for the Transfer programme (OI 1.1) and the Guidelines on data sharing (OI 1.2):
- D3.2.1 Spatial geoportal, also called "AMAre Geoportal" in the application form (https://amare.interreg-med.eu/toolbox/geoportal)
- D3.3.1 Monitoring protocols
- D3.4.1 Database on Oceanographic products and indicators
The AMAre PLUS Geoportal is a Spatial Data Infrastructure at MPA scale, inspired by European standards and built on MPAs manager’s needs. It has a dedicated web application reachable through the link previously mentioned and a Geodatabase storing all the spatial and non-spatial information at MPA scale for each MPA involved in the AMAre and AMAre PLUS projects. This Geopportal will be further developed through MPA4Change implementation to act an inventory portal of databases monitoring CC and R in the Mediterranean. (EN), MPA NETWORKS: Support MPAs effectiveness through strong and connected networks in the Mediterranean (programme Interreg MED 2014-2020), 2019-2022.
Over the years, MPA practitioners have come to realise that working together would help address some of the challenges they face and MPA managers networks such as MedPAN have emerged and developed.
The MPA NETWORKS project intends to boost these dynamics with the strengthening of MPA managers networks at all levels in the Mediterranean and empower MPAs to deliver the results that will benefit nature and sustain our livelihoods.. It focuses on providing sustainable solutions to challenges requiring an approach that goes beyond MPA boundaries. These challenges include the global question of management effectiveness, and more specifically the management of Small-Scale Fisheries in MPAs, the conservation of mobile species and the development of sustainable financing mechanisms for MPAs.
MPA NETWORKS used a cross-cutting approach to share and apply methodologies and tools developed during previous projects in other MPAs. It also developed a training programme for operational activities, experience-sharing workshops and twinnings, while fomenting synergies and cooperation between networks in the Mediterranean and beyond in order to give rise to a coordinated MPA voice with shared recommendations to support pro-MPA policy-making at international, Mediterranean and national levels.
https://mpa-networks.interreg-med.eu/ (EN), MPA NETWORKS: Support MPAs effectiveness through strong and connected networks in the Mediterranean (programme Interreg MED 2014-2020), 2019-2022.
Over the years, MPA practitioners have come to realise that working together would help address some of the challenges they face and MPA managers networks such as MedPAN have emerged and developed.
The MPA NETWORKS project intends to boost these dynamics with the strengthening of MPA managers networks at all levels in the Mediterranean and empower MPAs to deliver the results that will benefit nature and sustain our livelihoods.. It focuses on providing sustainable solutions to challenges requiring an approach that goes beyond MPA boundaries. These challenges include the global question of management effectiveness, and more specifically the management of Small-Scale Fisheries in MPAs, the conservation of mobile species and the development of sustainable financing mechanisms for MPAs.
MPA NETWORKS used a cross-cutting approach to share and apply methodologies and tools developed during previous projects in other MPAs. It also developed a training programme for operational activities, experience-sharing workshops and twinnings, while fomenting synergies and cooperation between networks in the Mediterranean and beyond in order to give rise to a coordinated MPA voice with shared recommendations to support pro-MPA policy-making at international, Mediterranean and national levels.
https://mpa-networks.interreg-med.eu/ (FR) | MPA4Change partners PORTOFINO and BRIJUNI were both partners of MPA NETWORKS and will bring the knowledge and experience learnt to the project, especially regarding training, stakeholder engagement and effective networking - the MPA-NETWORK stakeholder database will be used to build MPA4Change's.
MPA4Change will especially capitalise on MPA NETWORKS training programme, which consists of a climate change training centre established in Brijuni National Park in synergy with MPA-Engage, as well as an online training platform for users and MPA managers. Through its partner BRIJUNI, it will also make use of the network of all Croatian institutions managing protected areas of the marine ecosystem, the Croatian Marine Protected Areas Network or CroMPA, that contributes to the implementation of nature protection policies such as the EU Biodiversity Strategy, established thanks to MPA NETWORKS. (EN), MPA4Change partners PORTOFINO and BRIJUNI were both partners of MPA NETWORKS and will bring the knowledge and experience learnt to the project, especially regarding training, stakeholder engagement and effective networking - the MPA-NETWORK stakeholder database will be used to build MPA4Change's.
MPA4Change will especially capitalise on MPA NETWORKS training programme, which consists of a climate change training centre established in Brijuni National Park in synergy with MPA-Engage, as well as an online training platform for users and MPA managers. Through its partner BRIJUNI, it will also make use of the network of all Croatian institutions managing protected areas of the marine ecosystem, the Croatian Marine Protected Areas Network or CroMPA, that contributes to the implementation of nature protection policies such as the EU Biodiversity Strategy, established thanks to MPA NETWORKS. (FR), MERCES: Marine Ecosystem Restoration in Changing European Seas (programme Horizon 2020), 2016-2020.
The MERCES project was the first H2020 focusing on the restoration of marine habitats from coastal areas down to the deep sea, with the aim of: 1) assessing the potential of different technologies and approaches; 2) quantifying the returns in terms of ecosystems services and their socio-economic impacts; 3) defining the legal-policy and governance frameworks needed to optimize the effectiveness of the different restoration approaches.
Specific aims included: a) improving existing, and developing new, restoration actions of degraded marine habitats; b) increasing the adaptation of EU degraded marine habitats to global change; c) enhancing marine ecosystem resilience and services; d) conducting cost-benefit analyses for marine restoration measures; e) creating new industrial targets and opportunities.
http://www.merces-project.eu/ (FR), MERCES: Marine Ecosystem Restoration in Changing European Seas (programme Horizon 2020), 2016-2020.
The MERCES project was the first H2020 focusing on the restoration of marine habitats from coastal areas down to the deep sea, with the aim of: 1) assessing the potential of different technologies and approaches; 2) quantifying the returns in terms of ecosystems services and their socio-economic impacts; 3) defining the legal-policy and governance frameworks needed to optimize the effectiveness of the different restoration approaches.
Specific aims included: a) improving existing, and developing new, restoration actions of degraded marine habitats; b) increasing the adaptation of EU degraded marine habitats to global change; c) enhancing marine ecosystem resilience and services; d) conducting cost-benefit analyses for marine restoration measures; e) creating new industrial targets and opportunities.
http://www.merces-project.eu/ (EN) | The Lead Partner of MPA4Change, CSIC, participated as a partner in MERCES and as such will bring its experience in the restoration of marine habitats to the MPA4Change Partnership.
Furthermore, MPA4Change will be able to capitalise on the following MERCES deliverables, fine-tuning some to be part of the Toolkit (e.g., D3.2 and D3.3) and using others for the implementation of its activities (e.g., D6.1 for WP2):
- D1.3. State of the knowledge on marine habitat restoration and literature review on the economic cost and benefits of marine and coastal ecosystem service restoration
- D3.1. State of knowledge on key eco-evolutionary processes and factors driving the resilience of the shallow hard bottoms and mesophotic habitats
- D3.2. Criteria and protocols for the restoration of shallow hard bottoms and mesophotic habitats
- D3.3. Enhanced tools and indicators for restoration of shallow hard bottoms and mesophotic habitats
- D6.1. Review of existing international governance structures, regarding the conservation, restoration and recovery of marine ecosystems
The MPA4Change database will also be use MERCES network of stakeholders.
(EN), The Lead Partner of MPA4Change, CSIC, participated as a partner in MERCES and as such will bring its experience in the restoration of marine habitats to the MPA4Change Partnership.
Furthermore, MPA4Change will be able to capitalise on the following MERCES deliverables, fine-tuning some to be part of the Toolkit (e.g., D3.2 and D3.3) and using others for the implementation of its activities (e.g., D6.1 for WP2):
- D1.3. State of the knowledge on marine habitat restoration and literature review on the economic cost and benefits of marine and coastal ecosystem service restoration
- D3.1. State of knowledge on key eco-evolutionary processes and factors driving the resilience of the shallow hard bottoms and mesophotic habitats
- D3.2. Criteria and protocols for the restoration of shallow hard bottoms and mesophotic habitats
- D3.3. Enhanced tools and indicators for restoration of shallow hard bottoms and mesophotic habitats
- D6.1. Review of existing international governance structures, regarding the conservation, restoration and recovery of marine ecosystems
The MPA4Change database will also be use MERCES network of stakeholders.
(FR), FutureMARES: Climate Change and Future Marine Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity (Horizon 2020), 2020-2024.
Marine and transitional waters support a large portion of the global biodiversity. Harbouring key climate-regulating processes and habitats, they contribute to worldwide food security, in addition to other valuable economic and well-being services and resources. The FutureMARES project will deliver new solutions to climate change challenges. This highly multidisciplinary project will investigate socially and economically viable nature-based solutions for climate change adaptation and mitigation. Solutions will include the restoration of habitat-forming species that can buffer coastal habitats from climate change effects and improve seawater quality. Conservation actions and sustainable, ecosystem-based harvesting (capture and culture) of seafood are also a project priority.
FutureMARES activities are designed around two Nature-based Solutions (NBS) and one Nature-inclusice Harvesting (NIH): Effective Restoration (NBS1), Effective Conservation (NBS2) and Nature-inclusive Harvesting (NIH). The research and cooperation is held with marine organisations and the public in 5 Case study regions across the globe. The overall goal is to safeguard ecosystems’ natural capital, biodiversity and services, by providing science-based policy advice on how best to use NBS/NIH to protect future biodiversity and ecosystem services for climate adaptation and mitigation, maximising natural capital and its delivery of services from marine and transitional ecosystems.
https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/869300 (FR), FutureMARES: Climate Change and Future Marine Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity (Horizon 2020), 2020-2024.
Marine and transitional waters support a large portion of the global biodiversity. Harbouring key climate-regulating processes and habitats, they contribute to worldwide food security, in addition to other valuable economic and well-being services and resources. The FutureMARES project will deliver new solutions to climate change challenges. This highly multidisciplinary project will investigate socially and economically viable nature-based solutions for climate change adaptation and mitigation. Solutions will include the restoration of habitat-forming species that can buffer coastal habitats from climate change effects and improve seawater quality. Conservation actions and sustainable, ecosystem-based harvesting (capture and culture) of seafood are also a project priority.
FutureMARES activities are designed around two Nature-based Solutions (NBS) and one Nature-inclusice Harvesting (NIH): Effective Restoration (NBS1), Effective Conservation (NBS2) and Nature-inclusive Harvesting (NIH). The research and cooperation is held with marine organisations and the public in 5 Case study regions across the globe. The overall goal is to safeguard ecosystems’ natural capital, biodiversity and services, by providing science-based policy advice on how best to use NBS/NIH to protect future biodiversity and ecosystem services for climate adaptation and mitigation, maximising natural capital and its delivery of services from marine and transitional ecosystems.
https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/869300 (EN) | Both CSIC and UVIGO are partners of the FutureMARES project and will bring the konwledge and experience they acquired as such to MPA4Change. The implementation of both projects will coincide, which means that they will both be able to benefit from each other findings, especially regarding the involvement of policymakers and MPA managers.
Some FutureMARES results are specially relevant for MPA4Change: the deliverables related with the future scenarios and literature review to support the implementation of effective MPAs and Restoration actions.
- D1.3. Report on crossregion long-term monitoring of the marine biodiversity in relation to climate change and variability
- D2.1. Report Ensemble Data Set of Key Model Variables
The FutureMARES stakeholder database will also be used to build MPA4Change's. (FR), Both CSIC and UVIGO are partners of the FutureMARES project and will bring the konwledge and experience they acquired as such to MPA4Change. The implementation of both projects will coincide, which means that they will both be able to benefit from each other findings, especially regarding the involvement of policymakers and MPA managers.
Some FutureMARES results are specially relevant for MPA4Change: the deliverables related with the future scenarios and literature review to support the implementation of effective MPAs and Restoration actions.
- D1.3. Report on crossregion long-term monitoring of the marine biodiversity in relation to climate change and variability
- D2.1. Report Ensemble Data Set of Key Model Variables
The FutureMARES stakeholder database will also be used to build MPA4Change's. (EN), LIFE Natur’Adapt: Adapting nature protection to the challenges of climate change in Europe - basis of dynamic collective learning (programme Life), 2018-2023.
The LIFE #CC #Naturadapt project aims to integrate climate change adaptation into the management and protection of natural sites. Its approach is to develop relevant methods, tools and services required to carry out climate change vulnerability assessments and to develop adaptation plans for natural protected areas. These will build on the shared vision of stakeholders on challenges and solutions, which make allowance for the needs and constraints of site managers.
The project also aims to facilitate access to knowledge on how protected sites should be managed. Such knowledge will enable site managers and biodiversity stakeholders to respond in a cost-effective manner to the effects of climate change. It will also support the development of mechanisms that make it possible to share and disseminate innovative actions in the field of nature protection adaptation as well as support the application of the project’s results to other sites in France and elsewhere in Europe.
https://naturadapt.com/ (EN), LIFE Natur’Adapt: Adapting nature protection to the challenges of climate change in Europe - basis of dynamic collective learning (programme Life), 2018-2023.
The LIFE #CC #Naturadapt project aims to integrate climate change adaptation into the management and protection of natural sites. Its approach is to develop relevant methods, tools and services required to carry out climate change vulnerability assessments and to develop adaptation plans for natural protected areas. These will build on the shared vision of stakeholders on challenges and solutions, which make allowance for the needs and constraints of site managers.
The project also aims to facilitate access to knowledge on how protected sites should be managed. Such knowledge will enable site managers and biodiversity stakeholders to respond in a cost-effective manner to the effects of climate change. It will also support the development of mechanisms that make it possible to share and disseminate innovative actions in the field of nature protection adaptation as well as support the application of the project’s results to other sites in France and elsewhere in Europe.
https://naturadapt.com/ (FR) | LIFE Natur'Adapt will end its 4th and last phase, dissemination and knowledge transfer, as MPA4Change will start, meaning that the latter will be able to capitalise on its results, thanks to EUROPARC being a partner of both.
Among the findings and outputs of LIFE Natur'Adapt, MPA4Change will especially capitalise the following:
- the Toolkit: set of learning and professionalisation tools, among which a methodology to carry out vulnerability assessments and climate change adaptation plans (to be used for act 1.1)
- the Collaboration Platform: a platform containing new methods, tools and services to anticipate climate change, as well as methodological guidance accessible to all via the development of online training modules (to be capitalised for WP1)
- a Help Desk providing protected area managers operational expertise and knowledge, which will continuously be enriched as new experiences are gained (to be capitalised for WP1)
- awareness-raising and communication tools taylored to different target groups (experience to be used by EUROPARC to build the Communication and Dissemination strategy)
The MPA4Change database will also be use the LIFE Natur'Adapt network of stakeholders. (FR), LIFE Natur'Adapt will end its 4th and last phase, dissemination and knowledge transfer, as MPA4Change will start, meaning that the latter will be able to capitalise on its results, thanks to EUROPARC being a partner of both.
Among the findings and outputs of LIFE Natur'Adapt, MPA4Change will especially capitalise the following:
- the Toolkit: set of learning and professionalisation tools, among which a methodology to carry out vulnerability assessments and climate change adaptation plans (to be used for act 1.1)
- the Collaboration Platform: a platform containing new methods, tools and services to anticipate climate change, as well as methodological guidance accessible to all via the development of online training modules (to be capitalised for WP1)
- a Help Desk providing protected area managers operational expertise and knowledge, which will continuously be enriched as new experiences are gained (to be capitalised for WP1)
- awareness-raising and communication tools taylored to different target groups (experience to be used by EUROPARC to build the Communication and Dissemination strategy)
The MPA4Change database will also be use the LIFE Natur'Adapt network of stakeholders. (EN), LIFE Enable: Creating the European Nature Academy for applied Blended LEarning (programme Life), 2021-2024.
LIFE Preparatory project LIFE ENABLE started in August this year and will last until July 2024. The primary purpose of the project is to enable all Natura 2000 and Protected Area managers, to become more effective, competent and confident nature management professionals. The project will use a blended learning approach to build capacities in core competencies required for effective nature management.
Capitalising on the experience of LIFE e-Natura2000.edu, this new project will create a European training system called European Nature Academy as the means to develop further training projects and capacity building programmes at a Pan-European scale. The goal is to deliver widely accessible and tailor-made learning experiences for Natura 2000 managers. This will be done by developing, testing and implementing innovative and accessible training activities that will support the delivery of EU policy by improving nature management practices in an extended Protected Area network that incorporates Natura 2000 sites. European Nature Academy will boost individual, organisational and national capacities for Natura 2000 management by providing learning opportunities for individuals to train as trainers, mentors or facilitators of the project’s learning experiences. Apart from that, it will also create a body of replicable courses and tailor-made learning activities, making use of the full range of face-to-face, blended, and online possibilities.
As such, LIFE ENABLE will apply practical development and delivery mechanisms to revise and update content and learning approaches on the basis of participants’, tutors’ and external experts’ feedback as part of continuous professional development programmes purpose-built for Europe’s nature and its managers.
https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/life/publicWebsite/project/details/5448 (EN), LIFE Enable: Creating the European Nature Academy for applied Blended LEarning (programme Life), 2021-2024.
LIFE Preparatory project LIFE ENABLE started in August this year and will last until July 2024. The primary purpose of the project is to enable all Natura 2000 and Protected Area managers, to become more effective, competent and confident nature management professionals. The project will use a blended learning approach to build capacities in core competencies required for effective nature management.
Capitalising on the experience of LIFE e-Natura2000.edu, this new project will create a European training system called European Nature Academy as the means to develop further training projects and capacity building programmes at a Pan-European scale. The goal is to deliver widely accessible and tailor-made learning experiences for Natura 2000 managers. This will be done by developing, testing and implementing innovative and accessible training activities that will support the delivery of EU policy by improving nature management practices in an extended Protected Area network that incorporates Natura 2000 sites. European Nature Academy will boost individual, organisational and national capacities for Natura 2000 management by providing learning opportunities for individuals to train as trainers, mentors or facilitators of the project’s learning experiences. Apart from that, it will also create a body of replicable courses and tailor-made learning activities, making use of the full range of face-to-face, blended, and online possibilities.
As such, LIFE ENABLE will apply practical development and delivery mechanisms to revise and update content and learning approaches on the basis of participants’, tutors’ and external experts’ feedback as part of continuous professional development programmes purpose-built for Europe’s nature and its managers.
https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/life/publicWebsite/project/details/5448 (FR) | The 1st year of MPA4Change will correspond to the last year of LIFE Enable. As the MPA4Change partner EUROPARC is also the Lead Partner of LIFE Enable, it will be able to act as a go-between to increase the synergies between both.
Furthermore, MPA4Change will be able to capitalise on the experience of EUROPARC, especially regarding the following results for the implementation of WP1:
- training and capacity building courses, an extensive range of innovative online learning tools, including video documentaries (learning hub) for Natura 2000 and other nature managers
- online ‘New start’ induction support pack of practical advice and resources for those beginning careers in Natura 2000 management
- multi-language MOOC platform and learning programmes,in particular, the train the trainers course
- workshops and "knowledge bridges",a series of talks or presentations at external stakeholder organisations
The MPA4Change database will also be use the LIFE Enable network of stakeholders. (EN), The 1st year of MPA4Change will correspond to the last year of LIFE Enable. As the MPA4Change partner EUROPARC is also the Lead Partner of LIFE Enable, it will be able to act as a go-between to increase the synergies between both.
Furthermore, MPA4Change will be able to capitalise on the experience of EUROPARC, especially regarding the following results for the implementation of WP1:
- training and capacity building courses, an extensive range of innovative online learning tools, including video documentaries (learning hub) for Natura 2000 and other nature managers
- online ‘New start’ induction support pack of practical advice and resources for those beginning careers in Natura 2000 management
- multi-language MOOC platform and learning programmes,in particular, the train the trainers course
- workshops and "knowledge bridges",a series of talks or presentations at external stakeholder organisations
The MPA4Change database will also be use the LIFE Enable network of stakeholders. (FR), ReLife: Re-establishment of the Ribbed Limpet (Patella ferruginea) in Ligurian MPAs by Restocking and Controlled Reproduction (programme LIFE), 2016-2022.
The ReLife project aimed to reintroduce Patella ferruginea within three target Ligurian Marine Protected Areas (Portofino, Bergeggi and Cinque Terre), where extinction causes have been eliminated and appropriate protection is assured. It had the four following objectives: (1) To restore a population of P. ferruginea inside the maximum protection (A) zone in the Portofino MPA and in selected zones of Bergeggi MPA and Cinque Terre MPA (and restock the donor MPA); (2) To define a protocol of procedures for the transfer of a number of specimens from high density areas to poor density ones; (3) To define a protocol of procedures and techniques for the controlled reproduction of the species, to ensure the availability of juveniles for restocking new areas; (4) To raise the knowledge and environmental awareness of citizens, and stakeholders by effective communication and engaging activities to demonstrate the environmental value of protected areas and the possible impact of active restocking.
https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/life/publicWebsite/project/details/4545 (FR), ReLife: Re-establishment of the Ribbed Limpet (Patella ferruginea) in Ligurian MPAs by Restocking and Controlled Reproduction (programme LIFE), 2016-2022.
The ReLife project aimed to reintroduce Patella ferruginea within three target Ligurian Marine Protected Areas (Portofino, Bergeggi and Cinque Terre), where extinction causes have been eliminated and appropriate protection is assured. It had the four following objectives: (1) To restore a population of P. ferruginea inside the maximum protection (A) zone in the Portofino MPA and in selected zones of Bergeggi MPA and Cinque Terre MPA (and restock the donor MPA); (2) To define a protocol of procedures for the transfer of a number of specimens from high density areas to poor density ones; (3) To define a protocol of procedures and techniques for the controlled reproduction of the species, to ensure the availability of juveniles for restocking new areas; (4) To raise the knowledge and environmental awareness of citizens, and stakeholders by effective communication and engaging activities to demonstrate the environmental value of protected areas and the possible impact of active restocking.
https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/life/publicWebsite/project/details/4545 (EN) | PORTOFINO, one of MPA4Change partners, was also the Lead Partner of the ReLife project and its knowledge and experience about active restoration in Marine Protected Areas can be further exploited for MPA4Change in addition to the ReLife restoration protocols that can be part of the CC and R solutions entering the fine-tuning process (act 1.1) leading to the creation of the Toolkit (D1.1.1). (EN), PORTOFINO, one of MPA4Change partners, was also the Lead Partner of the ReLife project and its knowledge and experience about active restoration in Marine Protected Areas can be further exploited for MPA4Change in addition to the ReLife restoration protocols that can be part of the CC and R solutions entering the fine-tuning process (act 1.1) leading to the creation of the Toolkit (D1.1.1). (FR), NEPTUNE:PatrimoNio naturalE e culTUrale sommerso e gestione sosteNibile della subacquEa ricreativa (programme Interreg MARITTIMO 2014-2020), 2019-2021.
The project was established with the intention of creating a cross-border network of pilot underwater sites of high natural and cultural interest, managed and enjoyed in a sustainable manner. The overall goal is the application of common cross-border systems, for a sustainable management of underwater heritage, by raising awareness among managers and users on the natural and cultural value of the cross-border underwater heritage. NEPTUNE will address climate change, marine water quality, protection of endangered habitats/species: these are just a few of the major challenges we should tackle together and increase awareness on underwater heritage. The added value of the project is to enjoy sustainable underwater diving, also through the use of new technologies.
https://interreg-maritime.eu/web/neptune (FR), NEPTUNE:PatrimoNio naturalE e culTUrale sommerso e gestione sosteNibile della subacquEa ricreativa (programme Interreg MARITTIMO 2014-2020), 2019-2021.
The project was established with the intention of creating a cross-border network of pilot underwater sites of high natural and cultural interest, managed and enjoyed in a sustainable manner. The overall goal is the application of common cross-border systems, for a sustainable management of underwater heritage, by raising awareness among managers and users on the natural and cultural value of the cross-border underwater heritage. NEPTUNE will address climate change, marine water quality, protection of endangered habitats/species: these are just a few of the major challenges we should tackle together and increase awareness on underwater heritage. The added value of the project is to enjoy sustainable underwater diving, also through the use of new technologies.
https://interreg-maritime.eu/web/neptune (EN) | PORTOFINO was the Lead Partner of the NEPTUNE project. It is able to use its experience and the knowledge it acquired as such, especially capitalising on:
- the assessment of natural capital linked to diving;
- the vulnerability assessment of the habitat related to the impact of diving activities.
PORTOFINO will also be able to make use of its experience in engaging stakeholder (in the case of NEPTUNE, divers).
(FR), PORTOFINO was the Lead Partner of the NEPTUNE project. It is able to use its experience and the knowledge it acquired as such, especially capitalising on:
- the assessment of natural capital linked to diving;
- the vulnerability assessment of the habitat related to the impact of diving activities.
PORTOFINO will also be able to make use of its experience in engaging stakeholder (in the case of NEPTUNE, divers).
(EN), PHAROS4MPAs: Blue Economy and marine conservation: safeguarding Mediterranean MPAs to achieve Good Environmental Status (programme Interreg MED 2014-2020), 2018-2020.
The PHAROS4MPAs project aimed at improving the effectiveness of management and networking for the Mediterranean Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), in order to contribute to the conservation of marine biodiversity and ecosystems, considering the complex set of human activities developed in the context of blue growth and their interactions with protected areas and marine ecosystems. To achieve this, PHAROS4MPAs supported the implementation of EU maritime policies for the sustainable management of human activities and the protection of Mediterranean ecosystems, including the MSP (Maritime Spatial Planning) Directive and the MSFD, among others. In particular, PHAROS4MPAs capitalized on existing results provided by EU-funded projects and other initiatives concerning MPAs and their interactions with economic sectors by developing an integrated framework for recommendations on the necessary practical collaboration between MPAs and such maritime sectors.
https://pharos4mpas.interreg-med.eu/ (EN), PHAROS4MPAs: Blue Economy and marine conservation: safeguarding Mediterranean MPAs to achieve Good Environmental Status (programme Interreg MED 2014-2020), 2018-2020.
The PHAROS4MPAs project aimed at improving the effectiveness of management and networking for the Mediterranean Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), in order to contribute to the conservation of marine biodiversity and ecosystems, considering the complex set of human activities developed in the context of blue growth and their interactions with protected areas and marine ecosystems. To achieve this, PHAROS4MPAs supported the implementation of EU maritime policies for the sustainable management of human activities and the protection of Mediterranean ecosystems, including the MSP (Maritime Spatial Planning) Directive and the MSFD, among others. In particular, PHAROS4MPAs capitalized on existing results provided by EU-funded projects and other initiatives concerning MPAs and their interactions with economic sectors by developing an integrated framework for recommendations on the necessary practical collaboration between MPAs and such maritime sectors.
https://pharos4mpas.interreg-med.eu/ (FR) | CNR was a partner of PHAROS4MPAs and will allow MPA4Change to capitalise on the Decision Support Tool for Blue Economy in Marine Protected Areas (DST-MPA).
The main objectives of the tool is to translate the knowledge from the capitalization baselines reports into a fully user-friendly online tool. It is specifically intended for 3 kinds of users: MPA managers and planners, public authorities and economic operators, to help them to easily findall that is related to their needs (e.g. recoomendation, best practices, case studies) in the field of prevention and mitigation of natural and environmental risks and risks linked to human activities, as well as how to address climate changes’ effects in terms of risks prevention and mitigation.
(FR), CNR was a partner of PHAROS4MPAs and will allow MPA4Change to capitalise on the Decision Support Tool for Blue Economy in Marine Protected Areas (DST-MPA).
The main objectives of the tool is to translate the knowledge from the capitalization baselines reports into a fully user-friendly online tool. It is specifically intended for 3 kinds of users: MPA managers and planners, public authorities and economic operators, to help them to easily findall that is related to their needs (e.g. recoomendation, best practices, case studies) in the field of prevention and mitigation of natural and environmental risks and risks linked to human activities, as well as how to address climate changes’ effects in terms of risks prevention and mitigation.
(EN), PLASTIC BUSTERS MPAs (Interreg MED 2014-2021), 2019-2022.
Plastic Busters MPAs provides a comprehensive, multifaceted and coordinated approach to fight marine litter in Mediterranean coastal and marine protected areas towards healthy marine ecosystems. Its main lines of action focus on:
· Defining and testing harmonised methodologies for monitoring marine
· Assessing the marine litter impacts on biota dwelling in MPAs
· Identifying marine litter hotspots in MPAs
· Showcasing marine litter prevention and mitigation measures
· Building capacities and transferring knowledge on marine litter issues: PB MPAs will implement fit-for-purpose knowledge transfer, capitalization and replication mechanisms to create a truly enabling environment for concrete, effective and continuous actions against marine litter in a network of Mediterranean MPAs.
Setting up a joint governance plan for managing marine litter in pelagic and coastal MPAs: The project will mainstream its results and ensure their uptake via a joint governance plan for managing marine litter in pelagic and coastal MPAs. The plan will consolidate the knowledge gained throughout the life-cycle of the project and will empower MPA managers, decision makers and other stakeholders to undertake coordinated and targeted actions against marine litter.
https://plasticbustersmpas.interreg-med.eu/ (FR), PLASTIC BUSTERS MPAs (Interreg MED 2014-2021), 2019-2022.
Plastic Busters MPAs provides a comprehensive, multifaceted and coordinated approach to fight marine litter in Mediterranean coastal and marine protected areas towards healthy marine ecosystems. Its main lines of action focus on:
· Defining and testing harmonised methodologies for monitoring marine
· Assessing the marine litter impacts on biota dwelling in MPAs
· Identifying marine litter hotspots in MPAs
· Showcasing marine litter prevention and mitigation measures
· Building capacities and transferring knowledge on marine litter issues: PB MPAs will implement fit-for-purpose knowledge transfer, capitalization and replication mechanisms to create a truly enabling environment for concrete, effective and continuous actions against marine litter in a network of Mediterranean MPAs.
Setting up a joint governance plan for managing marine litter in pelagic and coastal MPAs: The project will mainstream its results and ensure their uptake via a joint governance plan for managing marine litter in pelagic and coastal MPAs. The plan will consolidate the knowledge gained throughout the life-cycle of the project and will empower MPA managers, decision makers and other stakeholders to undertake coordinated and targeted actions against marine litter.
https://plasticbustersmpas.interreg-med.eu/ (EN) | BRIJUNI will draw from its experience as a Partner of the PLASTIC BUSTERS MPAs project, especially from:
- standardisation / harmonisation of monitoring protocols
- capacity-building and knowledge transferring
- mainstreaming (joint governance plan for managing marine litter in pelagic and coastal MPAs)
- awareness-raising
- comprehensive recommendations for policymakers (policy briefs) (FR), BRIJUNI will draw from its experience as a Partner of the PLASTIC BUSTERS MPAs project, especially from:
- standardisation / harmonisation of monitoring protocols
- capacity-building and knowledge transferring
- mainstreaming (joint governance plan for managing marine litter in pelagic and coastal MPAs)
- awareness-raising
- comprehensive recommendations for policymakers (policy briefs) (EN), ECOSCOPE: Ecocentric management for sustainable fisheries and healthy marine ecosystems (Horizon 2020), 2021-2025.
ECOSCOPE - Ecocentric management for sustainable fisheries and healthy marine ecosystems
The EU-funded EcoScope project is developing an interoperable platform and a decision-making toolbox, available through a single public portal to decision-makers and end-users, to promote ecosystem-based fisheries management. With the assistance of policymakers and scientific advisory bodies, EcoScope will address ecosystem degradation and the anthropogenic impacts that are causing several European fisheries to be unsustainably exploited. The EcoScope Platform will provide climatic, oceanographic, biogeochemical, biological and fisheries data sets in a common standard and format that will be available through interactive mapping layers and will be used in ecosystem modelling and marine spatial planning simulations. The EcoScope Toolbox is a scoring system based on assessments of all ecosystem components, ecosystem and economic models that will help restore fisheries' sustainability.
https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101000302 (EN), ECOSCOPE: Ecocentric management for sustainable fisheries and healthy marine ecosystems (Horizon 2020), 2021-2025.
ECOSCOPE - Ecocentric management for sustainable fisheries and healthy marine ecosystems
The EU-funded EcoScope project is developing an interoperable platform and a decision-making toolbox, available through a single public portal to decision-makers and end-users, to promote ecosystem-based fisheries management. With the assistance of policymakers and scientific advisory bodies, EcoScope will address ecosystem degradation and the anthropogenic impacts that are causing several European fisheries to be unsustainably exploited. The EcoScope Platform will provide climatic, oceanographic, biogeochemical, biological and fisheries data sets in a common standard and format that will be available through interactive mapping layers and will be used in ecosystem modelling and marine spatial planning simulations. The EcoScope Toolbox is a scoring system based on assessments of all ecosystem components, ecosystem and economic models that will help restore fisheries' sustainability.
https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101000302 (FR) | The leader of activity 2.4 "Data sharing via global platforms" is CNR, which is also a partner of ECOSCOPE. As such, CNR will be able to reuse the experience it gets from it, especially from:
- Ecoscope Platform:
The EcoScope Platform will be a novel, modular, interdisciplinary e-tool integrating met-ocean, biogeochemical, environmental, biological, fisheries, and socio-economic datasets, covering all European Seas. The e-platform will provide both primary data and on-demand derived data services including forecasts, through a single public portal to various end-user groups, stakeholders, and the broader public. Through the EcoScope Platform, complex ecosystem functions and interrelations between abiotic-biotic-human components will be revealed and their spatio-temporal variability will be assessed and visualized. Data on oceanography, marine biogeochemistry, food webs, and ecosystem productivity within the framework of climate change and increased anthropogenic forcing will be aggregated.
- EcoScope Toolbox
It will be a novel, decision support tool, which will use an interdisciplinary scoring system integrating oceanographic, climatic, environmental, habitat, biological, community, fisheries, and economic indicators. The intent is for this toolbox to become a universal tool for managing fisheries within the full ecosystem context and a global tool for fisheries management after its validation and testing in all European Seas. (FR), The leader of activity 2.4 "Data sharing via global platforms" is CNR, which is also a partner of ECOSCOPE. As such, CNR will be able to reuse the experience it gets from it, especially from:
- Ecoscope Platform:
The EcoScope Platform will be a novel, modular, interdisciplinary e-tool integrating met-ocean, biogeochemical, environmental, biological, fisheries, and socio-economic datasets, covering all European Seas. The e-platform will provide both primary data and on-demand derived data services including forecasts, through a single public portal to various end-user groups, stakeholders, and the broader public. Through the EcoScope Platform, complex ecosystem functions and interrelations between abiotic-biotic-human components will be revealed and their spatio-temporal variability will be assessed and visualized. Data on oceanography, marine biogeochemistry, food webs, and ecosystem productivity within the framework of climate change and increased anthropogenic forcing will be aggregated.
- EcoScope Toolbox
It will be a novel, decision support tool, which will use an interdisciplinary scoring system integrating oceanographic, climatic, environmental, habitat, biological, community, fisheries, and economic indicators. The intent is for this toolbox to become a universal tool for managing fisheries within the full ecosystem context and a global tool for fisheries management after its validation and testing in all European Seas. (EN), LIFE UrbanGreeningPlans: Designing innovative mechanisms to plan, implement, strengthen and manage green infrastructures in (peri-)urban areas (programme Life), 2021-2023.
The EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030 calls upon cities with over 20.000 inhabitants to create Urban Greening Plans by the end of 2021. These plans aim to bring nature back into cities to support biodiversity and mitigate climate change. To help cities achieve this ambitious goal, the European Commission will create a EU Urban Greening Platform, under a new ‘Green City Accord’ with cities and mayors. This is the framework of the new LIFE UrbanGreeningPlans project, which will tackle the following challenges:
- Lack of knowledge and expertise among policy makers and city officers on how to implement and maintain Green Infrastructures
- Bad connectivity and accessibility of peri-urban green spaces due to growing cities and spatial pressure, as well as due to the historically poor urban planning of peri-urban areas
- Poor cooperation across different sectors within a municipality and/or different municipalities. Co operations are needed because of the multi-scalar and multi-functional nature of Green Infrastructure
- Lack of innovative and effective strategies to involve local businesses and the wider public.
Through demonstrating and implementing innovative actions, sharing best practice case studies and producing guidelines, the project aims to pave the way for urban areas throughout Europe to include Green Infrastructure, Nature Based Solutions (NBS) and the promotion of healthy ecosystems in their urban planning, demonstrating the value of green (peri-)urban spaces for our daily physical and mental well being.
https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/life/publicWebsite/project/details/5447 (EN), LIFE UrbanGreeningPlans: Designing innovative mechanisms to plan, implement, strengthen and manage green infrastructures in (peri-)urban areas (programme Life), 2021-2023.
The EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030 calls upon cities with over 20.000 inhabitants to create Urban Greening Plans by the end of 2021. These plans aim to bring nature back into cities to support biodiversity and mitigate climate change. To help cities achieve this ambitious goal, the European Commission will create a EU Urban Greening Platform, under a new ‘Green City Accord’ with cities and mayors. This is the framework of the new LIFE UrbanGreeningPlans project, which will tackle the following challenges:
- Lack of knowledge and expertise among policy makers and city officers on how to implement and maintain Green Infrastructures
- Bad connectivity and accessibility of peri-urban green spaces due to growing cities and spatial pressure, as well as due to the historically poor urban planning of peri-urban areas
- Poor cooperation across different sectors within a municipality and/or different municipalities. Co operations are needed because of the multi-scalar and multi-functional nature of Green Infrastructure
- Lack of innovative and effective strategies to involve local businesses and the wider public.
Through demonstrating and implementing innovative actions, sharing best practice case studies and producing guidelines, the project aims to pave the way for urban areas throughout Europe to include Green Infrastructure, Nature Based Solutions (NBS) and the promotion of healthy ecosystems in their urban planning, demonstrating the value of green (peri-)urban spaces for our daily physical and mental well being.
https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/life/publicWebsite/project/details/5447 (FR) | EUROPARC is is currently involved in the LIFE UrbanGreeningPlans project and will bring the gained expertise to MPA4Change project, particularly regarding Nature Based Solutions, and the involvement of the decision-making stakeholders (policymakers). (FR), EUROPARC is is currently involved in the LIFE UrbanGreeningPlans project and will bring the gained expertise to MPA4Change project, particularly regarding Nature Based Solutions, and the involvement of the decision-making stakeholders (policymakers). (EN), ScienceDIVER: Cross-sectoral skills for the blue economy market (EMFF Blue Economy 2018 – Blue Careers), 2019-2022.
The EMFF project ScienceDIVER aims to support the development of blue and smart cross-sectoral skills to meet the evolving needs in the labor market of the Blue Economy. Particularly, this project, facing the challenges of UN’s “Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development”, will build solid -long lasting- collaborations and structures between academia and industry in order to offer standardized training and clear career pathways to the diving scientists. The transition from the higher education to the marine industry is performed in three steps. Initially, through the driving of policy change to support the Scientific Diving as a profession and its unified regulation among EU countries, through a job-oriented qualification scheme for diving scientists, which is provided by the participating Universities (AUTH, UNICAL, STU) and DAN Europe in partnership with International Diving Training Organizations (CMAS, PADI). And sequentially, by matching the developed skills with offered jobs, over a dedicated ICT ―BlueCareers platform (ATL) for career opportunities, which rely on scientific diving and Blue Technologies (as they are associated with scientific diving). A smooth transition is ensured with the contribution of key stakeholders in underwater science (e.g. CMAS SSC), diving regulations (e.g.EUF) and safety (DAN) as well as from the established or emerging Blue Economy industry sectors (MCB, ENVI).
https://www.sciencediver.eu/ (FR), ScienceDIVER: Cross-sectoral skills for the blue economy market (EMFF Blue Economy 2018 – Blue Careers), 2019-2022.
The EMFF project ScienceDIVER aims to support the development of blue and smart cross-sectoral skills to meet the evolving needs in the labor market of the Blue Economy. Particularly, this project, facing the challenges of UN’s “Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development”, will build solid -long lasting- collaborations and structures between academia and industry in order to offer standardized training and clear career pathways to the diving scientists. The transition from the higher education to the marine industry is performed in three steps. Initially, through the driving of policy change to support the Scientific Diving as a profession and its unified regulation among EU countries, through a job-oriented qualification scheme for diving scientists, which is provided by the participating Universities (AUTH, UNICAL, STU) and DAN Europe in partnership with International Diving Training Organizations (CMAS, PADI). And sequentially, by matching the developed skills with offered jobs, over a dedicated ICT ―BlueCareers platform (ATL) for career opportunities, which rely on scientific diving and Blue Technologies (as they are associated with scientific diving). A smooth transition is ensured with the contribution of key stakeholders in underwater science (e.g. CMAS SSC), diving regulations (e.g.EUF) and safety (DAN) as well as from the established or emerging Blue Economy industry sectors (MCB, ENVI).
https://www.sciencediver.eu/ (EN) | DAN is a key partner of the ScienceDIVER project partnership. Along with universities, it designed online Scientific Training Pilot Courses through which diving scientists can obtain a qualification. This previous experience will be essential for MPA4Change's activity 1.2 as it provided DAN with the knowledge and skills to design the project's online training course.
(FR), DAN is a key partner of the ScienceDIVER project partnership. Along with universities, it designed online Scientific Training Pilot Courses through which diving scientists can obtain a qualification. This previous experience will be essential for MPA4Change's activity 1.2 as it provided DAN with the knowledge and skills to design the project's online training course.
(EN), MarE: Technical support for the development of Albania's maritime and coastal economy (Italian Cooperation), 2019-2021.
The project supports the development of the sea economy in Albania, in order to contribute to the social and economic growth of the country, in line with the requirements of the EU pre-accession process. The project envisages analysing the economic potential offered by the environmental, marine and coastal heritage, through stock assessment activities, fleet and fishing effort analyses, sector analyses in aquaculture and eco-systemic services for tourism, with a view to contributing to economic sustainability. The Initiative is located in coastal areas in order to realise a territorial valorisation that will be able to take into account the 3 Measures/Sectors under intervention and the 30 project guidance sheets that the project intends to draw up on the basis of the preparatory survey and analysis work. The competent Ministries and the private sector will be able to implement interventions to support port infrastructures, the fishing fleet, aquaculture plants, actions for eco-systemic services and sustainable tourism, benefiting from the Italian credit line and other financing instruments offered by other Donors and by the Albanian Institutions themselves.
http://libeccio.bo.ismar.cnr.it:8080/geonetwork/srv/api/records/902879eb-ed98-43c4-8648-513508f73779 (FR), MarE: Technical support for the development of Albania's maritime and coastal economy (Italian Cooperation), 2019-2021.
The project supports the development of the sea economy in Albania, in order to contribute to the social and economic growth of the country, in line with the requirements of the EU pre-accession process. The project envisages analysing the economic potential offered by the environmental, marine and coastal heritage, through stock assessment activities, fleet and fishing effort analyses, sector analyses in aquaculture and eco-systemic services for tourism, with a view to contributing to economic sustainability. The Initiative is located in coastal areas in order to realise a territorial valorisation that will be able to take into account the 3 Measures/Sectors under intervention and the 30 project guidance sheets that the project intends to draw up on the basis of the preparatory survey and analysis work. The competent Ministries and the private sector will be able to implement interventions to support port infrastructures, the fishing fleet, aquaculture plants, actions for eco-systemic services and sustainable tourism, benefiting from the Italian credit line and other financing instruments offered by other Donors and by the Albanian Institutions themselves.
http://libeccio.bo.ismar.cnr.it:8080/geonetwork/srv/api/records/902879eb-ed98-43c4-8648-513508f73779 (EN) | CNR was the Lead Partner of MarE. For MPA4Change, the following results of MarE can be capitalised:
- Mapping and assessment of the main coastal and lagoon ecosystems;
- Visibility: communication, sharing of approaches and utilisation of results;
- MarE Geoportal and Mare Geodatabase architecture. (FR), CNR was the Lead Partner of MarE. For MPA4Change, the following results of MarE can be capitalised:
- Mapping and assessment of the main coastal and lagoon ecosystems;
- Visibility: communication, sharing of approaches and utilisation of results;
- MarE Geoportal and Mare Geodatabase architecture. (EN), MPA-Adapt: Guiding Mediterranean MPAs through the climate change era, building RESILIENCE and ADAPTATION (programme Interreg MED 2014-2021), 2016-2019.
The MPA-Adapt project was developed to tackle climate change mitigation and adaptation through a multi-level approach. Five marine protected areas from three Mediterranean countries acted as pilot sites for the development of climate change adaptation action plans and their integration into existing management frameworks.In order to achieve this, they underwent capacity building and one-on-one consultations with experts throughout the duration of the project. Based on their experiences and other available data, the project delivered a strategy for climate change adaptation in MPAs of the Mediterranean, which should lead other MPAs through the same process and facilitate the development of basin-wide application of adaptive management standards for dealing with climate change related issues.
An important component of the project was the communication aspect, both on local level through awareness raising activities in pilot MPAs, and on basin level, through active dissemination of results and the presentation of the ground breaking methodology developed in the project. MPA-Adapt also fostered networks by improving the dialogue and coordination between MPA managers, scientists, and key coastal actors in the project (such as local administrations, fishermen and divers).
https://mpa-adapt.interreg-med.eu/ (FR), MPA-Adapt: Guiding Mediterranean MPAs through the climate change era, building RESILIENCE and ADAPTATION (programme Interreg MED 2014-2021), 2016-2019.
The MPA-Adapt project was developed to tackle climate change mitigation and adaptation through a multi-level approach. Five marine protected areas from three Mediterranean countries acted as pilot sites for the development of climate change adaptation action plans and their integration into existing management frameworks.In order to achieve this, they underwent capacity building and one-on-one consultations with experts throughout the duration of the project. Based on their experiences and other available data, the project delivered a strategy for climate change adaptation in MPAs of the Mediterranean, which should lead other MPAs through the same process and facilitate the development of basin-wide application of adaptive management standards for dealing with climate change related issues.
An important component of the project was the communication aspect, both on local level through awareness raising activities in pilot MPAs, and on basin level, through active dissemination of results and the presentation of the ground breaking methodology developed in the project. MPA-Adapt also fostered networks by improving the dialogue and coordination between MPA managers, scientists, and key coastal actors in the project (such as local administrations, fishermen and divers).
https://mpa-adapt.interreg-med.eu/ (EN) | MPA-Adapt and MPA4Change have in common their Lead Partner, CSIC, and 2 partners, BRIJUNI and PORTOFINO. All 3 of them will bring their knowledge and experience to MPA4Change, in the fields of climate change adaptation and resilience but also awareness raising, result dissemination and networking between stakeholders.
In addition, the following results of MPA-Adapt will be capitalised:
-MPA-Adapt joint governance plan :developing adaptation plans to face climate change impacts in Mediterranean Marine Protected Areas
-Monitoring Climate-related responses in Mediterranean Marine Protected Areas and beyond: 5 standardized monitoring protocols, rapid vulnerability assessment and Climate change adaptation plan.
(EN), MPA-Adapt and MPA4Change have in common their Lead Partner, CSIC, and 2 partners, BRIJUNI and PORTOFINO. All 3 of them will bring their knowledge and experience to MPA4Change, in the fields of climate change adaptation and resilience but also awareness raising, result dissemination and networking between stakeholders.
In addition, the following results of MPA-Adapt will be capitalised:
-MPA-Adapt joint governance plan :developing adaptation plans to face climate change impacts in Mediterranean Marine Protected Areas
-Monitoring Climate-related responses in Mediterranean Marine Protected Areas and beyond: 5 standardized monitoring protocols, rapid vulnerability assessment and Climate change adaptation plan.
(FR)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 999 436.00

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 799 548.80

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 80.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Deliverables:

MPA4Change toolkits
MPA4Change toolkits
MPA4Change training and knowledge transfer programme material (available on an e-learning platform)
PA4Change training and knowledge transfer programme material (available on an e-learning platform)
Data obtained by the taker MPAs
Data obtained by the taker MPAs
Guidelines to consolidate and transfer data to the existing data platforms
Guidelines to consolidate and transfer data to the existing data platforms
Set of policy papers and briefs
Set of policy papers and briefs
Training material for the policymakers' bootcamps
Training material for the policymakers' bootcamps
Governance model of the MPA4Change Roster
Governance model of the MPA4Change Roster
Set of contents for the EuroMED Academy
Set of contents for the EuroMED Academy

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EuropeanGreenDeal MPA4Change will contribute to Biodiversity strategy for 2030 which is one of the core parts of the European Green Deal. More specifically, MPA4Change will provide inputs to two Actions included in the strategy to guide the path towards the protection 30% with 10% strictly protected of European seas and Restoration of degraded habitats. The project will provide the basis to enhance the management effectiveness of MPAs face the climate change by the development of adaptation action plans.
EUStrategyAdriaticIonianRegion MPA4Change will contribute to the Strategy’s Pillar 3 – Environment quality. One of the specific objectives for this pillar is precisely to ensure a good environmental and ecological status of the marine and coastal environment by 2020 in line with the relevant EU acquis and the ecosystem approach of the Barcelona Convention” and it suggests achieving this objective by:
- Enhancing the network of MPAs
- Exchanging best practices among managing authorities of MPAs
- Implementing Maritime Spatial Planning and Integrated Coastal Management
MPA4Change will contribute to these 3 objectives by ensuring the transfer of toolkits and cross-fertilisation of MPAs in the region, starting with Croatia with one Giver MPA (BRIJUNI) and 3 Takers (see Associated Partners).
Other UNEP / MAP Integrated monitoring and Assessment Program (IMAP)
MPA4Change will contribute to Integrated monitoring and Assessment Program (IMAP) by promoting a better coordination, technical and political cooperation across the Mediterranean countries to track climate change effects through the monitoring toolkits. The derived indicators can directly feed the Ecological Objectives (EO) to assess the Good Environmental Status (GES) of marine ecosystems. It is worth noting the harmonization efforts in assessing the GES in the Mediterranean since, the EO are aligned with the MSFD descriptors. Thus, by enhancing the resilience to climate change effects, the MPAs will contribute to the assessment of IMAP-GES.
Other New EU Strategy on Adaptation to Climate Change
The new EU Strategy on Adaptation to Climate Change (2021) aims to realise the 2050 vision of a climate-resilient Union by making adaptation smarter, more systemic, swifter, and by stepping up international action. Focusing on Mediterranean marine protected areas, MPA4Change will contribute to promoting the implementation of efficient Nature Based Solutions to tackle climate change and preserve marine ecosystems. In the process MPA4Change will contribute to improve our knowledge on climate change impacts, provide a harmonized framework for systemic adaptation planning and risk assessment in the MPAs, accelerate the adoption adaptation actions in the management plans Improve knowledge of climate impacts and solutions and strengthen climate resilience by building strong international cooperation on climate adaptation. These activities are completely aligned with the main goals for the strategy.
Other Union for the Mediterranean’s 2030 GreenerMed Agenda
MPA4Change is totally aligned to the 2030 GreenerMed Agenda objectives and will particularly contribute to the Axis 3 “Protect, preserve, manage and restore natural resources in the Mediterranean region within an integrated ecosystem approach, including terrestrial, marine and coastal dimensions”. The partnership will thus participate to UfM Working Group on Environment and Climate Change by providing operational tools in a wide array of identified key actions on the Axis 3, for instance but not only KA 3.1, Support actions that preserve, protect and/ or restore terrestrial, marine and coastal ecosystems, natural capital and biodiversity, KA3.3. Promote an integrated ecosystem-based approach to managing terrestrial, costal and marine natural resources, and KA3.9 . Promote nature-based solutions.
Other EU Marine Spatial Planning (MSP)
The EU MSP Directive aims to establish a framework for maritime spatial planning aimed at promoting the sustainable growth of maritime economies, the sustainable development of marine areas and the sustainable use of marine resources. The MSP must consider among others objectives “Preserving, protecting and improving the environment, including resilience to climate change impacts”. MPA4Change will contribute to tackle the challenge to incorporate the climate change effects in the design of local and networks of MPAs. This will be key to comply with the directive main goal.
Other Post-2020 SAPBIO (UNEP-MAP)
The Post-2020 Strategic Action Programme for the Conservation of Biodiversity and Sustainable Management of Natural Resources in the Mediterranean Region (Post-2020 SAPBIO) proposes activities tailored towards realistic objectives and targets to achieve a healthy Mediterranean Sea and coast in the context of sustainable development. Among the main objectives is to effectively protect 30% of the Mediterranean by 2030. MPA4Change will contribute to improve the effectiveness of MPAs specially face to the climate change effects by supporting key actors across different levels from local MPAs management bodies to international organizations and policy makers. Likewise, MPA4Change through the adoption of harmonized toolkits will enhance the cooperation and synergies across the MPA networks.
Other Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework (UNCBD)
The Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework is expected to be adopted during the UN CBD COP15. The framework establishes goals and targets to be achieved by 2030 in view to reach the Convention on Biological Diversity's vision of ‘Living in harmony with nature’ by 2050. The framework is still under discussion but include some targets especially relevant for MPA4Change activities to contribute to such as the increase of protection for the ocean up at least 30%, protect areas to support adaptation and mitigation to climate change and enhance effective management processes.
Other Maritime Strategy Framework Directive 2008/56/EC (MSFD)
MPA4Change will contribute to Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) by promoting a better coordination, technical and political cooperation across the Mediterranean countries to track climate change effects through the monitoring toolkit. The derived indicators can directly feed the MSFD Descriptors included to assess the Good Environmental Status (GES) of marine ecosystems. Thus, by enhancing the resilience to climate change effects, the MPAs will contribute as well to the assessment of MSFD-GES.
MediterraneanSeaBasin The WestMed initiative aims at defining and implementing the Mediterranean Sea basin strategy. It is the result of years of dialogue between ten countries in the western Mediterranean region involved in the “5+5 Dialogue”: 5 EU Member States (France, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Malta), and 5 Southern partner countries (Algeria, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco and Tunisia). Several key areas from the Blue economy are covered through national hubs and dedicated working groups.
MPA4Change can contribute to WestMed by promoting the coordination and cooperation to enhance the governance face to climate change of coastal areas in general and in particular of MPAs through the adoption of participatory processes and development sustainable socio-economic activities (citizen science) supporting the resilience of MPAs face to climate change. Besides the data sharing and training programs may be of interest of the WestMed community.

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 116 - Jointly developed solutions, Measurement unit:
RCO 083 - Strategies and action plans jointly developed, Measurement unit:
RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 104 - Solutions taken up or up-scaled by organisations, Measurement unit:
RCR 079 - Joint strategies and action plans taken up by organisations, Measurement unit:

Programme Result Indicator:

PSI1 - Organisations with increased institutional capacity due to their participation in cooperation activities across borders, Measurement unit: organisations

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSAIR

EUSAIR Priority (Policy) area / Horizontal action:

EUSAIR Degree of compliance:

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B EURO Mediterranean (EURO MED)

Last month that data in keep.eu was retrieved from the Programme's website or received from the Programme

2025-10-02

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

78 / 78 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

733 / 733 (100%)

Notes on the data

Languages

Contact Form

Enhancing Marine Protected Areas as Nature Based Solutions for adaptation to climate change: from local actions to Mediterranean basin strategy

Description

Thematic information

Partners (10)

Partners map

Summary

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Disclaimer