57 Collaborative Marine Management
Collaborative marine management is an approach to managing and conserving marine ecosystems and resources that involves cooperation and coordination among various stakeholders, including government agencies, scientists, local communities including Indigenous communities, industry representatives, and non-governmental organisations. The goal of collaborative marine management is to achieve sustainable and responsible use of marine resources while also protecting the health and integrity of marine ecosystems.
‘Aerial View of Bermagui Harbor with Breakwaters’ by DronePhotoGraphy reality used under a Pexels License
Collaborative marine management is seen as a more effective and equitable approach to addressing the complex challenges facing our oceans. It acknowledges that the health of marine ecosystems is interconnected with the well-being of human communities and seeks to find solutions that balance ecological conservation with human needs and aspirations.
Elements of Collaborative Marine Management
To learn more about some of the key principles and elements of collaborative marine management, click on each tab below.
Stakeholder Engagement
Stakeholder Engagement
It is important to bring together all stakeholders of the particular resource/area that is being managed right at the beginning of discussions. Depending on what is being managed and where will determine who the stakeholders are. This can include Traditional Owners, local communities, fishers, tourism operators, non-government organisations, researchers and government agencies.
Shared Decision-Making
Shared Decision-Making
In collaborative management, decision-making processes are inclusive and participatory. Stakeholders have a say in decisions related to marine resource management, and their knowledge and perspectives are considered.
Science-Based Management
Science-Based Management
Scientific research and data are critical for informed decision-making. Collaborative management often relies on the expertise of marine scientists to provide data and analysis to support management choices.
Ecosystem-Based Approach
Ecosystem-Based Approach
Instead of focusing solely on individual species or sectors, collaborative marine management often takes an ecosystem-based approach. This means considering the interactions among species and the broader ecological context.
Adaptive Management
Adaptive Management
Recognising that marine ecosystems are complex and dynamic, collaborative management often involves adaptive management strategies. This means that management measures can be adjusted over time based on monitoring and feedback from stakeholders. Examples of adaptive management have been presented in previous chapters and often involve bold, new ways of thinking.
Regulatory Frameworks
Regulatory Frameworks
Legal and regulatory frameworks are established to guide the management of marine resources. These frameworks should reflect the principles of collaboration and sustainability.
Conflict Resolution
Conflict Resolution
Stakeholders are often from different areas and can have very different viewpoints on how management should occur. As a result, disputes and conflicts can arise in collaborative management processes. Mechanisms for conflict resolution and negotiation are essential to ensure that stakeholders can work together effectively.
Long-Term Sustainability
Long-Term Sustainability
The ultimate goal of collaborative marine management is to ensure the long-term sustainability of marine resources – i.e. build a sustainable blue economy. This involves setting limits on resource extraction, protecting sensitive habitats, and minimising the impacts of human activities on marine ecosystems.
Collaborative marine management is seen as a more effective and equitable approach to addressing the complex challenges facing our oceans. It acknowledges that the health of marine ecosystems is interconnected with the well-being of human communities and seeks to find solutions that balance ecological conservation with human needs and aspirations.
Example: Sustainable Ocean Management
Watch the video below to see an example of sustainable marine management in practice.
