g. Elliott et al., 2011) (Fig. 5). While there is a tendency to talk about an ‘Ecosystem-based approach’, this seems a misnomer as by definition the approach is based in the ecosystem and so does not need qualifying. Similarly, while some areas refer to, for example, an ‘ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management’ (Pikitch selleck screening library et al., 2004) then again by definition this is not a true Ecosystem Approach as it is sectoral in relating to one use, fishing,

rather than covering all sectors. The challenge here is to indicate that all of the above principles, philosophies, mechanisms, approaches, characteristics and players can be combined and linked into a unified system indicating holistic and adaptive environmental management (Fig. 6). While this may be a personal view, it covers the main aspects and hopefully guides the reader through the morass which has developed

for managing a complex marine system. The need for Selleck PF-562271 and ability to achieve vertical and horizontal integration of the governance and stakeholders respectively is the essence of such management while ensuring the protection of the natural system and delivery of ecosystem services and societal benefits. This requires an understanding of Risk Assessment and then the tools and actions in Risk Management and then feedbacks from that management into ensuring the delivery of Ecosystem Services and societal goods and benefits as well as protecting the natural structure and functioning. In showing such an integrated marine management framework, it becomes apparent that it can only be achieved by having sectoral managers willing to think across the vertical and horizontal levels of integration. Secondly, we require statutory agencies which have the competency and capability to accommodate all the above aspects. Finally, we should always emphasise that marine educators should be required to produce graduates willing and able to link the natural and social sciences otherwise such an integrated framework and understanding cannot be achieved. Thymidylate synthase This paper is a result of prompting from colleagues

within the European Union FP7 Collaborative projects: VECTORS (THEME Ocean.2010-2, Vectors of Change in Oceans and Seas Marine Life, Impact on Economic Sectors, Grant Agreement No.: 266445, www.marine-vectors.eu), and DEVOTES (DEVelopment Of innovative Tools for understanding marine biodiversity and assessing good Environmental Status, ‘The Ocean of Tomorrow’ Theme (Grant Agreement No.: 308392), www.devotes-project.eu). Thanks also to Dr. Bob Earll (CoastMS) for extremely helpful comments on the figures. “
“Marine debris is a pervasive and growing international problem. Patches of plastic debris in the middle of the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans (Barnes et al., 2009, Goldstein et al., 2012, Gregory, 2009, Howell et al., 2012, Law et al., 2010 and Moore et al.