Task 4.3.1 – Initial information base and the identification of suitable methodologies and tools

The specific objective is to provide a comprehensive analytical framework for understanding and developing appropriate economic instruments, indicators, innovative analyses and methodologies that integrate socio-economic aspects with physical and environmental variables. After a general introduction of the marine strategy from a legislative and conceptual point of view, which highlights a shift from the anthropocentric (human-centred) perception of the marine and coastal environment to an ecocentric (ecosystem-centred) perspective, the third chapter consisted of a systematic review of approaches and methodologies applied for the economic evaluation of blue economy sectors, ecosystem services (ES) and their integration in accounting systems. Such activity, consisting in an information base related to studies and analyses conducted by research institutions and relevant authorities (i.e., European Commission, World Bank, WWF, ISPRA, OECD, UNITED NATIONS), is functional to identify the most appropriate indicators, methodologies and innovative assessment tools to measure direct, indirect and induced impacts of maritime plans. In order to take into account major environmental, economic, cultural and social factors of the three maritime areas considered in the Italian MSP, the fourth chapter is dedicated to a description and mapping of the main anthropic uses in the marine management areas. Such activity, complemented by an inventory of protected areas, is indispensable in developing a deeper understanding of interactions in the areas under investigations, through the identification of human and natural ecosystems, and their interconnected processes in order to individuate market and non-market priorities, and assess trade-offs between management alternatives. Finally, in line with the transdisciplinary and participatory approach of the Study , a list of relevant stakeholders according to their level of influence and sensitivity to marine and coastal ecosystems has been discussed.